Stefani Zinerman - AD 56

Stefani Zinerman

Office Sought: New York State Assembly – District 56 (Bedford-Stuyvesant & Crown Heights)

Campaign Site: 407 Lewis Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233

Endorsements so far: Unified Political Organization, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Attorney General Letitia James, and Speaker Carl Heastie.

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100 words max)

I am running to continue delivering bold, people-centered leadership for Bedford-Stuyvesant and Crown Heights. Our neighbors deserve a representative who listens, shows up, and turns community priorities into real policy wins. As a lifelong advocate and three-term Assemblymember, I’ve passed legislation, secured funding, and built partnerships that protect homeowners, expand workforce pathways, strengthen public health, and advance racial, economic, and gender justice. I seek to represent Brooklynites who believe government should be accountable, accessible, and courageous in the fight for dignity, opportunity, and self-determination.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max)

I will continue building an Albany-to-Brooklyn pipeline grounded in equity, inclusion, and accountability that delivers tangible results: stronger tenant and homeowner protections, union career pathways, youth civic leadership, accessible healthcare, and investments in cultural preservation and community safety rooted in care. I center affordability as income, housing stability, and quality public services, because freedom and dignity require both rights and resources. My work connects legislation to on-the-ground programs so families can feel policy in their daily lives. The difference I make is simple: I turn community voices into action and help build a government worthy of the people it serves.

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100 words max)

I will always stand unequivocally with LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, especially trans and gender-nonconforming people, including those of color, who are under attack. That means advancing strong anti-discrimination laws, protecting access to gender-affirming healthcare, supporting housing and employment protections, and fully funding community-based LGBTQ+ services. I will use my platform to challenge federal overreach and cruelty, pass state-level safeguards, and ensure New York remains a refuge for those seeking safety and dignity. I take my role as a mandated reporter seriously and will use my power as a legislator to protect the rights of Black

and Brown LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, youth, survivors of violence, and all who are targeted for who they are or who they love.

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 words max)

I support New York for All and policies that limit cooperation with I.C.E., protect due process, and keep families together. In the district, I lead and support ongoing Know Your Rights workshops, legal clinics, and rapid-response education to protect our community from I.C.E. enforcement and intimidation. This outreach is paired with organizing that ensures every resident has the information, training, and confidence to help keep their family and neighbors safe. I will continue funding legal defense, know-your-rights education, and community-based immigration services. New York must remain a sanctuary in practice, not just in name. No one should live in fear for simply trying to survive and provide for their family.

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max)

I endorsed Adrienne Adams in the Democratic primary. My support was grounded in her record of principled leadership, deep relationships with working-class communities, and commitment to governing with equity, competence, and transparency. My practice regarding endorsements is to support candidates who are aligned with my community’s values and who commit to working collaboratively to advance shared goals and improve the quality of life for my constituents. Candidates on the Independent and Republican lines did not meet that standard, and the Democratic nominee did not engage in a conversation about a shared agenda.

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind, do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and effective? (100 words max)

I have not yet had the opportunity to meet with the Brooklyn Can’t Wait coalition, but I am aligned with the values that animate people-powered, community-rooted democracy. I support leaders who listen to their neighbors, organize around shared values, engage in good-faith dialogue, and build relationships to move change forward. Yes, I support reforms that make our local party more democratic, transparent, inclusive, and accountable. A healthy party must reflect the people it serves and create real pathways for community participation, youth leadership, and grassroots organizing. I welcome efforts that strengthen trust, broaden representation, and modernize our party infrastructure so it better serves Brooklyn’s diverse communities.

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US

support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and other areas? (100 words max)

I will continue calling for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians, the release of hostages and detainees, and unrestricted humanitarian aid in Gaza. I oppose collective punishment and the dehumanization of any people. As a member of the NAACP Brooklyn Branch, I have and will continue to speak out against imperial aggression and economic warfare targeting nations like Venezuela and threats toward Greenland and others. I was taught to stand for human rights and I will consistently support diplomacy and peace over war.

Legislation:

[Please answer “yes” or “no” for each piece of legislation. Feel free to add additional discussion of your perspective on the legislation.]

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) (A5478/S1049A)? Yes

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251 (formerly SVSTA) (A3251/S2513)? Yes

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)? Yes

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)? Yes

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act? Yes

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)? Yes

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution (A9377/S8603)? Yes

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (with the exception of lists of specific organizations (unions, etc) or elected officials)?

Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..” instead of “the men and women of the…”

Yes. If endorsed, I commit to using Lambda Independent Democrats’ full logo and full name on campaign materials and in all places where endorsees are listed, consistent with the guidelines provided. I also commit to using inclusive, gender-neutral language in press releases, public statements, and campaign communications, reflecting my belief

Eon Huntley - AD 56

Eon Huntley

Office Sought: NY State Assembly (AD-56)

Campaign Site: https://eonforassembly.com/

Endorsements so far: NYC-DSA, New York Communities for Change, 504 Democratic Club, CUFFH Action, Tenants Pac, NY Progressive Action Network

Councilmember Chi Osse (CD-36), City Councilmember Alexa Aviles (CD-38), Senator Jabari Brisport (SD-25), Senator Kristen Gonzalez (SD-59), Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest (AD-57), Assemblymember Emily Gallagher (AD-50), Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100 words max)

As a lifelong Brooklynite, born to a Brooklyn native mother and a Guyanese immigrant father, the class struggle that grips Brooklyn is personal for me. I am a middle class retail worker in the fashion industry on hourly pay, who knows how it feels to sit across the table from my bosses as a union representative. I believe that we must elect people who have lived through struggle, who stand in solidarity with those who still struggle, and who will fight for justice, with a passion sparked by their own lived experience. That's the kind of leader I would be.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max) I hope to make New York a more livable place for working people. I’m running on a bold slate which would fundamentally transform this state’s economy, from one designed to give handouts to the rich, to one that provides the safety, stability, and wellbeing every New Yorker deserves. Through my vote and my bully pulpit, alongside my comrades on the NYC-DSA-endorsed slate, and our socialists-in-office who are already in the legislature, I hope to usher in an era of universal healthcare & childcare, stronger unions, a lower the costs of living, and safety for immigrant community members.

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100 words max)

New York must not fold to the Trump Administration's cruel attacks against trans young-people. In fact, New York must continue on as a sanctuary for all under attack by the Trump administration, whether it be by protecting life-saving gender affirming-care, or fighting to dismantle ICE. In Albany, I’d fight for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, and for those that seek safety here, by strengthening New York’s sanctuary policies, ensuring hospitals continue to provide

gender-affirming care, and invest in LGBTQ+ healthcare care citywide. Finally, we must ensure Medicaid continues to cover critical gender-affirming medical services regardless of federal funding.

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 words max)

New York must not fold to the Trump Administration's cruel attacks against trans young-people. In fact, New York must continue on as a sanctuary for all under attack by the Trump administration, whether it be by protecting life-saving gender affirming-care, or fighting to dismantle ICE. In Albany, I’d fight for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, and for those that seek safety here, by strengthening New York’s sanctuary policies, ensuring hospitals continue to provide gender-affirming care, and invest in LGBTQ+ healthcare care citywide. Finally, we must ensure Medicaid continues to cover critical gender-affirming medical services regardless of federal funding.

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max) Since before Trump took office, I have been using my platform as a former candidate to draw attention to Trump’s unconscionable immigration policies and the stain of I.C.E. in our city. In the past, I have amplified “Know your rights” and court watch trainings, and my campaign plans to conduct similar trainings in my campaign office once it opens. In Albany, I’d ensure we protect the immigrants who have built this city, by pushing hard for the New York For All Act. Together, we can look out for our neighbors and fight back against Trump's fascism.

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind, do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and effective? (100 words max) I am a proud ally and friend of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and I supported his campaign from day one. Beginning a week after the Mayor’s election, I took the mic at a "Tax The Rich" rally to show that I'll be standing with this Mayor every step of the way, in his fight to make New York affordable for all. It's been a real honor to begin work, and I look forward to further advancing the affordability agenda in Albany, as part of the broader political movement to meet the needs of working people.

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and other areas? (100 words max)

As a DSA candidate, my views strongly align with the “Brooklyn Can't Wait” platform. I couldn’t agree more that the Brooklyn Democratic Party is corrupt, defensive, exclusive, invisible, and weak. The reality is the current political system is broken, and we must address this corruption within our community. I'm a strong supporter of DSA challengers like myself, and I stand in solidarity with the Brooklyn Can't Wait slate of district leader candidates.

Legislation:

[Please answer “yes” or “no” for each piece of legislation. Feel free to add additional discussion of your perspective on the legislation.]

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) (A5478/S1049A)?

Yes

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251 (formerly SVSTA) (A3251/S2513)? Yes

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)?

Yes

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)?

Yes

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act?

Yes

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)?

Yes

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution (A9377/S8603)?

Yes

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (with the exception of lists of specific organizations (unions, etc) or elected officials)?

Yes

Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..”Yes

Marlon Rice - SD 25

Marlon Rice

Office Sought: State Senate District 25

Campaign Site: n/a

Endorsements so far: currently completing questionnaires and going through the endorsement process

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100words max)

I am deeply rooted in the communities of District 25, with a lifelong connection to the people, institutions, and culture that shape daily life there. Through decades of work in education, community programming, and local engagement, I have built trust across generations and understand firsthand the challenges and aspirations of the families who call the neighborhood home. Current leadership is flattering the privileged while speaking the language of the oppressed and marginalized. He has left us behind, the residents of NYCHA, the homeowners, the mom and pop small businesses, the seniors, the everyday residents, and sold out the culture.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max) I will foster community and co-govern with those on the margin.

Some of my top priorities are stopping deed theft, stopping the privatization of NYCHA and ensuring safety across all zip codes in my district.

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100words max) I think NYS has been a champion for LGBTQ+ with legal protection and civil rights, and ensuring access to affirming healthcare. But I think there is more to be done on economic justice for LGBTQ+ people experiencing a cycle of poverty, and homelessness. This particularly impacts Black and Latinx Transgender individuals who face an overwhelming barrier to traditional employment. Reports show that transgender individuals face an unemployment rate nearly three times higher than the general population. This is a failure on the system; as Senator there is much to be done for employment opportunities for the transgender community, housing access, and supportive services.

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 wordsmax)

I would continue to fund organizations to provide legal support and representation for immigrants. Also, this current tactics of ICE is eerily similar to stop and frisk, which was discriminatory and predatory. As State Senator, I would tackle ICE in the same way we did stop and frisk, at all levels of government with a unified front and continued litigation.

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max). I voted for Adrienne Adams in the primary and supported the Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani in the general.

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind,do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent,inclusive, and effective? (100 words max) Yes.

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and otherareas? (100 words max)

I will speak about destabilizing conflict not just politically focused on Palestine and Israel. I will speak on the crisis in Haiti, the genocide in Sudan, and The Congo because these countries fall in the “and other areas” and on the margins of international conflict. As Senator, I would critique the role our tax dollars play in international affairs and violence in other countries while we have communities here that are being displaced, have experienced generations of state violence, gun violence and have not received reparations and repair.

Legislation:[Please answer “yes” or “no” for each piece of legislation. Feel free to add additional discussion of your perspective on the legislation.]

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS)(A5478/S1049A)? Yes.

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251 (formerly SVSTA)(A3251/S2513)? No. Black and Latinx Transgender people are more likely to engage in sex work as their most viable option for survival. Consensual sex work can quickly change into a dangerous situation and/or into a trafficking situation or an exploitative situation where a person hired to help manage or ensure safety takes advantage. When the system as it is hasn't prioritized these communities safety, passing legislations without structural, community, and cultural changes that center the safety of these marginalized groups could only perpetuate more violence.

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)? Yes

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)? Yes

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act? Yes

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)? Yes

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution(A9377/S8603)? Yes.

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (with the exception of lists of specific organizations (unions, etc) or elected officials)? Yes.

Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..” instead of “the men and women of the…”) Yes.

Phara Souffrant Forrest - AD 57

Phara Souffrant Forrest

Office Sought: State Assembly, 57th District

Campaign Site:  Pharaforassembly.com

Endorsements so far: UAW Region 9A, 1999 SEIU, NKD, CWA, Council of School Supervisors & Administrators, and NYSNA

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100 words max)

• In 2020, I ran to represent my home because I was tired—tired of luxury development pushing out my friends and neighbors, high rents, police brutality, and an inhumane healthcare system. I am proud of the progress I’ve made over the past 3 terms, but the work is not yet finished. I am running for re-election to Tax the Rich, pass the Treatment Court Expansion Act, pass the New York For All to protect our neighbors from ICE, win higher pay, safe staffing, and better contracts for healthcare workers, and to deliver green social housing.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max)

• I have used my office to organize residents across the district, offering an annual leadership development and organizing training program to support my constituents (Brooklyn ROOTS).  I’ve championed organizing efforts across the district; working alongside the Union of Pinnacle Tenants fighting against the sale of their homes, to the NYSNA nurses strike for safe staffing, and to the seniors of Clinton Hill fighting for better bus service. I hope to continue building on these victories but building more community power. 

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100 words max)

• Supporting queer people must always be intersectional and recognize that Black Trans Women face the most discrimination because they are targeted as Trans women, Black people, and Queer people. I will continue fighting for legislation that protects LGBTQIA+ communities by decriminalizing sex work, making gender-affirming care an essential health benefit, making HIV education mandatory for healthchare professionals, and establishing NYS as a sanctuary state for people providing or receiving gender affirming healthcare. My goal continues to be  building  a New York where all people are free to love who they love without fear and express their gender how they choose.

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 words max)

• I have marched, protested, and been arrested in acts of civil disobedience against ICE here in New York City. I am the child of immigrants and I will do everything within my capability to defend my immigrant friends and neighbors from abduction and deportation. In the assembly I am supporting the New York for All Act and the Dignity not Detention Act to end NYS cooperation with ICE. In my district I am planning to host know rights training and court watch training as a part of my campaign. 

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max)

• Zohran Mamdani! We were elected to the assembly on the same DSA slate and I was an early and enthusiastic supporter of my friend and colleague in both the primary and general election. 

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind, do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and effective? (100 words max)

• Absolutely. In order to make change in Albany we must begin right here in Brooklyn. I have already received the endorsement of the New Kings Democrats and I am looking forward to supporting two reform district leaders here in the 57th district. We have a generational chance to revive local democracy across this borough and I am looking forward to building a more representative, transparent, and truly democratic party alongside Brooklyn Can’t Wait here in the 57th district. 

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and other areas? (100 words max)

• It was wrong to invade Iraq in 200 and we risk repeating that mistake in Venezuela, Greenland, and Gaza today. As a Democratic Socialist I believe that universal Human Rights can only matter if they are applied equally, to all. I have been an outspoke and active critic against the Genocide in Gaza and I was a co-sposnor of the Not on Our Dime Bill in the state assembly. War is never the answer and I will always stand against American aggression abroad and for a world where all people can live in peace.

Legislation:

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) (A5478/S1049A)?  Yes

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251  (formerly SVSTA) (A3251/S2513)? Yes! This is my bill and I am hoping to finally pass it this year.

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)? Absolutely. The New York Health Act has been one of my legislative goals since I won my first election.   

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)? Yes

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act?   Yes

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)? Yes

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution (A9377/S8603)? Yes

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (with the exception of lists of specific organizations (unions, etc) or elected officials)? Yes
Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..” instead of “the men and women of the…” Yes
 

Samantha Johnson - AD 57

Samantha Johnson

Office Sought: NYS Assembly AD 57

Campaign Site: Samanthajohnsonforbk.com

Endorsements so far: N/A

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100 words max) I want to represent my neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany because I come from the same communities whose voices are often missing from decision-making. As a longtime NYCHA resident, organizer, and community advocate, I have spent over two decades helping families secure housing, supporting small businesses, partnering with faith institutions, and building resources for working people. I am running to ensure policies reflect our lived realities: affordable housing, economic opportunity, safe neighborhoods, and strong schools. My commitment is simple: listen deeply, lead with accountability, and fight every day, no matter what, so Brooklyn families have a fair opportunity to thrive together, forward, always.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max)

I will make a difference by bringing community-driven leadership to Albany with leadership rooted in lived experience, accountability, and results. I will fight for deeply affordable housing, real investments in NYCHA, stronger support for small businesses, and expanded access to quality schools, workforce opportunities, and health resources for all. I am committed to ensuring public funding reaches the neighborhoods that need it most and that residents have a real voice in shaping policies that impact their lives. My focus is on building safer, healthier, and more economically stable communities so working families, seniors, and young people across Brooklyn can truly thrive.

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100 words max)

I am committed to ensuring our community remains a sanctuary for all, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. As federal protections face rollbacks, I will champion local non-discrimination ordinances, ensure funding for mental health resources such as Assembly Bill 10093, which calls for a 24 hours Mental Health crisis hotline, and protect access to gender-affirming care. True empowerment means more than just defense; it means actively including transgender voices and grassroots advocates in our decision-making processes. I will use my office to challenge discriminatory rhetoric and reinforce that human rights include everyone, guaranteeing that every resident within the 57th can live safely, authentically, and with the full protection of the law.

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 words max)

I will support Brooklynites targeted by ICE by fighting against the politicization for stronger state protections, like the NY For All Act that ensures access to legal representation with Language access, due process, and safe access to essential services without fear. Mandatory legal representatives to increase visibility inside the court. As a fight to protect all sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, houses of worship, and community mutual aid spaces, and fight against harmful language that promotes bigotry, strengthen partnerships with trusted community organizations that provide rapid-response support. Our immigrant neighbors are essential to Brooklyn’s strength and economy, and I will stand firmly against policies that

separate families and instead advance legislation that protects immigrant rights, promotes inclusion, and ensures that every resident, regardless of status, can live with dignity and safety.

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max) I endorsed Zohran Mamdani in both the primary and General election. I had the chance to support him on his campaign during his Assembly re-election in 2023 and experienced his efforts to be present for NYCHA and marginalized communities within his district.

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind, do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and effective? (100 words max)

I strongly support efforts to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the communities it serves. I share the core goals of reform: expanding grassroots participation, increasing transparency in party decision-making, and ensuring that leadership reflects the diversity and voices of Brooklyn neighborhoods. I am committed to working collaboratively with reform-minded district leaders, community organizations, and residents to strengthen democratic participation at every level. Whether through supporting reform candidates or advancing structural improvements, my focus will remain on building a party infrastructure that is transparent, people- driven and centered, and truly reflective of Brooklyn’s poor, working families and community leadership.

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and other areas? (100 words max)

I believe state and local leaders must serve as moral compasses when federal policy contradicts our values. I have stood alongside activists in calling for an immediate, permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an end to military aid and militarization of publicly funded facilities and non-profits that fuel civilian suffering. Furthermore, I oppose the Trump Administration’s interventionist 'Donroe Doctrine' and stand in support of our federal legislators who are fighting against this. from the destabilizing and abolishing military actions in Venezuela, West Africa, and Haiti, and beyond. I will champion legislative resolutions and true divestment strategies that signal our community's refusal to be complicit in supporting global aggression, ensuring our state remains a voice for diplomacy, freedom, human rights, and international law.

Legislation:

[Please answer “yes” or “no” for each piece of legislation. Feel free to add additional discussion of your perspective on the legislation.]

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) (A5478/S1049A)?Yes

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251 (formerly SVSTA) (A3251/S2513)?Yes

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)? Yes

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)? Yes

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act? Yes

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)? Yes

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution (A9377/S8603)? Yes

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (except lists of specific organizations (unions, etc.) or elected officials)? Yes. If endorsed, I fully commit to using LID’s full name and logo on my campaign website, literature, and digital materials. I value the prestige and history of the Lambda Independent Democrats, and I would be proud to display your branding prominently to signal my alignment with the LGBTQ+ community and LID’s mission."

Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..” instead of “the men and women of the…” Yes.

Christian Celeste Tate - AD 54

Christian Celeste Tate

Office Sought:
State Assembly District 54

Campaign Site:

http://www.cct4nyc.com  

Endorsements so far:
Sandy Nurse, New York City Council District 37, Jennifer Gutiérrez, New York City Council District 34, Tiffany Caban, New York City Council District 22, Alexa Aviles, New York City Council District 38, Jabari Brisport, New York State Senate District 25 ,NYC Democratic Socialists of America, New York Communities for Change, Make the Road Action, Churches United for Fair Housing, New Kings Democrats, DRUM Beats NYC, NY Progressive Action Network , Run for Something

Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany? (100 words max)
I’m running for Assembly because the status quo is suffocating us. We live in the wealthiest city on Earth and yet 20% of New York families live in poverty. Our immigrant neighbors are being kidnapped off of the streets. People who grew up in Bushwick and East New York are being pushed out because they cannot keep up with housing costs. While all of this is happening, Erik Dilan is totally absent. We have the power to build the city we deserve but to do it we need an assembly member who is present with and accountable to the people.

What difference will you make for your community? (100 words max)
I hope to make a difference by elevating the organizing that is already being done in my community, and bringing that organizing up to Albany. People in Bushwick and East New York are working 24/7 to build a city that works for them – one where everyone has access to housing, healthcare, safety, and dignity. I want to uplift and accelerate that work from the assembly, always staying present with and accountable to the people I serve. I will also support crucial housing, immigration, and economic justice legislation that Dilan has refused to sign on to.

How will you support and empower the LGBTQ+ community, particularly at a time when transgender people are under sustained attack from the Trump Administration? (100 words max)
As attacks on LGBTQ+ people, and especially trans people, continue to escalate at the federal level, New York needs to step up to fill the gaps. In Albany, I will always stand up against the dehumanization of trans and gender non-conforming New Yorkers. I’ll support legislation to create a gender affirming care fund, ensuring trans healthcare remains accessible across our state. I will also champion the decriminalization of sex work and the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity and Safety Act, to ensure trans folks facing incarceration are placed at facilities reflecting their gender identity. 

How will you support and empower Brooklynites being targeted by I.C.E? (100 words max)
ICE is a violent, paramilitary police force empowered to carry out Donald Trump’s fascist agenda, and I will do everything in my power to stop them. In Albany, I’ll fight to pass New York For All, Dignity Not Detention, Access to Representation, and the MELT Act. These protections would prevent state and local agencies from cooperating with ICE, banning immigration detention facilities from our state, guaranteeing the right to counsel for New Yorkers facing deportation, and prohibiting ICE agents from concealing their identities. I’ll also use my office to educate people about their rights and organize against deportations. 

Who did you endorse in the 2025 Mayoral Election, in both the primary and the general election? (100 words max)
I ranked Zohran Mamdani first in the 2025 mayoral primary (followed by Brad, Zellnor, Adrienne, and Michael Blake) because he presented a thorough understanding of the material conditions facing our city and did an exceptional job presenting an alternative to the “lesser of two evils” trap. Zohran’s primary campaign was a uniquely mobilizing force in our city and I am proud to have been a part of it as the East Brooklyn field coordinator. Of course, I also supported Zohran in the general election.

Although you are running for a state legislative position, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in local political communities. With that in mind, do you/will you support the Brooklyn Can’t Wait slate of District Leader candidates and Brooklyn Can’t Wait’s reforms to make our local party more accountable, transparent, inclusive, and effective? (100 words max)
Absolutely. The unrepresentativeness of the Brooklyn Democratic Party is both embarrassing and counter productive. Not only is there a lack of transparency and accountability in the party structure, but there is also an insistence on preserving party power and a refusal to show up for Democratic candidates. The Brooklyn Democratic Party should serve as a national example of party transparency, accountability, and effective organizing. I am very excited to collaborate with NKD-endorsed DL candidates, and have gone out of my way to help recruit a promising slate of DL candidates here in AD54.

Similarly, we recognize that our state elected officials have an important voice in national political dialogue as well. How will you use your voice to speak out about ending US support for the genocide in Gaza and putting a stop to the aggression being implemented by the Trump Administration against Venezuela, Greenland, and other areas? (100 words max)
I will always stand with Palestine and those around the world facing American imperial oppression. In Albany, I’ll call for an end to the genocide and occupation in Palestine and support the Not on Our Dime bill, which prevents NY non-profits from funding Israeli settler violence in the West Bank. I’ll also call attention to lesser-known ways New York works with Israel, such as the NYPD and IDF’s joint training and intelligence sharing programs. I’ll also be a vocal opponent of illegal, imperial military action against Venezuela and Greenland, and will support legislation to combat this aggression in the Assembly.

Legislation:

Do you support the Gender Identity, Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) (A5478/S1049A)? 
Yes, absolutely. This common-sense bill offers essential protections to trans people facing incarceration, such as placement in a facility that reflects the person’s gender identity, and access to gender affirming clothing and commissary items. I’ll be proud to support it in Albany, even as we pursue the larger goal of decarceration. 

Do you support Cecilia’s Act for Rights in the S*x Trades S2513/A3251  (formerly SVSTA) (A3251/S2513)?
Yes, absolutely. Sex work is work! Furthermore, the criminalization of sex work often makes sex workers less safe (even when criminalized under the Nordic model), by exposing sex workers to law enforcement officials who are often abusive towards sex workers and are unlikely to help when someone is in a situation that is legitimately dangerous. The decriminalization of sex work will protect workers by extending labor protections, limiting discriminatory policing practices that target trans New Yorkers, de-escalating conflicts with police, and increasing access to basic social services for sex workers.

Do you support the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425)?  
Absolutely. The New York Health Act would enshrine the right to healthcare as a basic right and offer coverage to every New Yorker, regardless of income, identity, employment, or immigration status. This would single handedly close the coverage gap and provide financial efficiencies to our healthcare system. Estimates suggest that under the New York Health Act, 90% of New Yorkers would pay less than they currently do for healthcare. It would eliminate premiums, copayments, and deductibles, replacing all three with a progressive tax that distributes costs fairly across our society. It is painfully clear that we cannot wait for the federal government to act on healthcare; we must pass the New York Health Act to ensure that access to healthcare is not contingent on anything. In the wealthiest city on Earth, it's time we treat healthcare as a basic human right. 

Do you support the Repeal STI Discrimination Act (A733A/S4545A)?
Absolutely. Repealing this outdated statute, which makes it a criminal misdemeanor for people who are knowingly living with STIs to have sex, regardless of whether they disclose their sexually transmitted infection (STI) status, if their partner consents, or if they use protection, will protect LGBTQ+ New Yorkers and public health. 

Do you support the Freedom to Read Act (A7777/S1099) and overriding the Governor’s veto of this act?  
Yes, absolutely. This bill, which would limit censorship and book banning by giving school librarians the authority to curate age-appropriate, diverse, and inclusive, and developmentally appropriate book selections for students, is more important than ever as book bans proliferate across the country. Kathy Hochul should be embarrassed to have vetoed this legislation and I absolutely support overriding that veto. 

Do you support the New York for All Act (A3506/S2235A)?
Yes. I was a field lead for the recent pressure campaign to push Governor Hochul to call a special session to pass both New York for All and Dignity Not Detention. I would immediately sign onto both of these bills and leverage the entirety of my platform to advocate for them. These are not only common-sense pieces of legislation, they are past due. The violence of the Trump Administration requires more than just quotable speeches. We are in a moment in which our state government needs to be in direct opposition to our federal government and I see New York For All, Dignity Not Detention, Access to Representation, and the MELT Act as non-negotiable.

Do you support adding a constitutional right to privacy to New York’s State Constitution (A9377/S8603)?
Yes, of course. This is a key way to protect New Yorkers’ civil rights and liberties from attacks at the federal level, and is especially important in today’s world of overpolicing, surveillance, and unlawful deportations.

Commitments:

If endorsed, do you commit to using LID’s full logo (will be provided) and full name on all materials and other places where you list endorsees (with the exception of lists of specific organizations (unions, etc) or elected officials)? Yes!

Do you commit to using inclusive and gender-neutral language in press releases and other announcements (e.g., “the people of the..” instead of “the men and women of the…” Yes!