The claim by Sen. James Alesi that, based on his last name, he would be the fi rst Senate Republican to vote on a same-sex marriage vote is misleading (“GOPer’s Visit Raises Gay-Marriage Hopes,” May 23).

The vast majority of votes taken in the state Senate are done via a “fast roll call” which simply requires those opposed to a bill to raise their hands. The rare “slow roll call,” which Alesi alludes to, is taken alphabetically — and only when fi ve Senators request it.

The Senate Republicans demanded the slow roll call during the 2009 marriage vote. Next time, if the Republicans allow for the customary fast roll call, Alesi’s last name will be moot. Thomas K. Duane, state Senate, Manhattan