NYS Assembly District 43 | Jelanie DeShong
NYS Assembly District 57 | Olanike Alabi
District Leader, District 57 | Michael Cox
NYS Assembly District 43 | Pierre Albert
NYS Assembly District 57 | Phara Souffrant Forrest
NYS Assembly District 43 | Tim Hunter
District Leader, District 57 | Michael Boomer
Office Sought
NYS Assembly, District 43
More Information
jdforassembly.com/
What makes you different (100 words max)?
As a first-generation Caribbean-American, I am not just a product of Central Brooklyn, my story is the story of Central Brooklynites. At a young age, I learned of my mother’s undocumented status; and I could not believe that a public-school teacher who devoted her life to educating children couldn’t vote or access basic services. My passion for helping my mom gain her full immigration status fueled my commitment to serving my community. And through opportunities working for Jumaane Williams, David Greenfield, Kathy Hochul, and SUNY Downstate Hospital, I’ve developed a reputation for successfully connecting my community to public services.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany (100 words max)?
For too long, the 43rd Assembly District was looked at as an afterthought in Brooklyn. Fortunately, our most recent representative was dynamic and brought attention to many of the issues our community is facing. And while I am humbled that former Assemblymember Diana Richardson is supporting my campaign to replace her, I know that the charge to continuously better the lives of my community is one borne of purpose. This campaign is not about me, it's about the mother who is considering leaving central Brooklyn because she doesn't want her son shot dead in the streets. It's about the family who has to make a decision on what bill to pay, and when, just so they can afford to eat. It's about giving the kid who is growing up with little to no inspiration around them some hope that even though the world has seemed to throw them away, they have a fighter in their elected official. That is what my campaign is about. And it is about time that someone who was both connected to the neighborhoods, and with those in power, bring these issues to the fore; and work collaboratively with stakeholders to solve problems, not just talk about them.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
I began my career interning at the League of Conservation Voters because I understood that climate change affects us all; and that it is incredibly important for people from Black and Brown communities to be on the front lines fighting for environmental justice. I then worked in city government in the office of former Councilman, and current New York City Public Advocate, Jumaane Williams, where I learned how an advocate can transition into an effective legislator that truly represents the interests of their community.
For me, representing the 43rd Assembly District would be the culmination of a my history of service, as well as the honor of a lifetime. I want to fight for the people, because I’m of the people, which is why I’m supported in this race by the elected officials who represent the community like Congresswoman Yvette Clark, Senator Zellnor Myrie, and outgoing Assemblywoman – Deputy Brooklyn Borough President Diana Richardson. They’ve been allies throughout my career and I’m proud to be able to count them among the many who can speak to my love for Central Brooklyn and my desire to serve.
How will you support and empower the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
I will use my role as an Aly to amplify the voices of those I represent – As a black man in America, I know first-hand the feeling of not having a voice and representation at the tables of power. I will use my position and my voice to bring issues that impact LGBTQ community to the forefront
How will you support and empower marginalized Brooklynites (100 words max)?
i) I am committed to building a first-class women & children’s hospital in Central Brooklyn.
ii) As an Assemblymember, I will strongly advocate for the passage of Good Cause Eviction legislation, and will champion policies that place low- and middle-income New Yorkers, many young professionals like myself, on a path to homeownership.
iii) Boosting current employment programs such as workforce one, vocational/job/career training center, incentivizing the hiring of residents in the community, creating business improvement districts and merchant associations to preserve and invest in the creation of small businesses which are the backbone of the local economy.
Legislation
For each answer regarding a bill, please provide a brief statement if you are in opposition/undecided to the legislation or policy. If in support, simply indicate yes.
Do you support the Decriminalizing Sex Work/Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (“SVSTA”) (A849/S3075)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Recognition Act (A5465/S4402)?
Yes
Do you support the New York Health Act (A 6058/S 5474)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Identity Respect Dignity and Safety Act (A7001A/S6677)?
Yes
Do you support legislation that will suspend unnecessary travel to states that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (A 07991/S 06897)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Inclusive Ballot Act (A07933A/S6901B)?
Yes
Do you support the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act (A2230/S70)?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQI-Inclusive curriculum? (A808/S1929)?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring local school districts to establish policies and procedures regarding the treatment of transgender and gender-non conforming students (A840/S369)?
Yes
Do you support protecting the 340B Safety Net?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring unarmed crisis personnel to respond to mental health crises?
Yes
Do you support the Protecting the Rights of Juveniles During Interrogation Act (A5891/S2800)?
Do you support the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act (“HALT”) (A2277/S1757)?
Yes
Do you support the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) (A1248/S854)?
Yes
Do you support legislation to promote comprehensive sex ed in public schools? (A6616/S2584)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would mandate insurance coverage for PrEP/PEP (A808/S699)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would make gender affirming care an essential health benefit?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQ+ History curriculum for public schools (A817/S1729)?
Yes
Do you support the Housing Voucher Access Program (A3701A/S2804B)?
Yes
Do you support Good Cause eviction (A5573/S3082)?
Yes
Do you support passing a bill of rights for LGBTQ persons in long-term care facilities (A7807/S85)?
Yes
Do you support the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (A849/S4075)?
Yes
Do you support legislation to ban the use of conversion therapy on persons over 18 and under legal guardianship?
Yes
(Bill numbers based on 2021-2022 legislative session)
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
Office Sought
NYS Assembly, District 43
More Information
palbert43.com
What makes you different (100 words max)?
Too many New Yorkers have tuned out the political process and are disengaged. This campaign is a grassroots movement to promote participation in the electoral process. We are dedicated to registering more people to vote in local elections, turning out more people for Community Boards and Precinct Council Meetings, and bringing more voices and ideas into the fold. If we work together, we can solve the problems of our time. If we teach and train people on the issues of today then we can close the socio-economic gap and provide more opportunities, better pay and real assets for everyone, not just the few. Together we can address the wealth gap in our community.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany (100 words max)?
I was born and raised in this Assembly district. I have lived and worked with people in Crown Heights for most of my life. I have a connection to the people in this community and genuinely want to see people thrive and prosper and climb the socio-economic ladder. I want to give back and create opportunities for others by passing legislation that helps close the wealth gap and lift people out of poverty. This community is filled with so many good-hearted people who care for the elderly, believe in youth empowerment and believe in embracing their cultural heritage.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
One of the biggest issues is a lack of wealth, a lack of resources, and a lack of real property in certain underprivileged communities. I am a firm believer that funding our education system can prepare people for the real world and close these gaps. The district also suffers from a housing crisis, thus I will fight for state funding for NYCHA developments, work with nonprofits and community-based organizations to build more affordable housing units and push the City and State to reverse the policies of 421-a. Criminal Justice is an economic issue and I seek to tackle it by advocating for fair practices with parole hearings, ensuring that we keep the victories of cash bail reform and revising our minimum sentencing laws.
How will you support and empower the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
As a black male with an immigrant background I understand discrimination. I plan to use my position to call out all forms of injustice and microaggressions towards the LGBTQ community. I will understand that the needs of this community cannot be overshadowed. I will continue to educate myself and support legislation that can help dismantle these various biased forces working against the LGBTQ community.
How will you support and empower marginalized Brooklynites (100 words max)?
Marginalized Brooklynites do not simply need someone to listen to them but need someone to actually take the steps towards solutions to their problems. As this is a grassroots campaign, the various members of the community will be able to voice their concerns and together we can find solutions. Then that information can be used to create useful legislation that can change lives. We will fight for access to healthcare for all, for gun violence prevention, and affordable housing. We will find the best transportation policies for the district, one that makes it safe for those who ride bicycles and for pedestrians while allowing vehicular traffic to flow. My Candidacy will fight for unions and their members to have better pay, safe working conditions and safe staffing levels.
Legislation
For each answer regarding a bill, please provide a brief statement if you are in opposition/undecided to the legislation or policy. If in support, simply indicate yes.
Do you support the Decriminalizing Sex Work/Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (“SVSTA”) (A849/S3075)?
Undecided
I need to be educated on this bill some more and educated concerning the sex-work community. I am also open to exploring all the different ways we can support those who face abuse and violence and harsh penalties in this industry.
Do you support the Gender Recognition Act (A5465/S4402)?
Yes
Do you support the New York Health Act (A 6058/S 5474)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Identity Respect Dignity and Safety Act (A7001A/S6677)?
Undecided.
I have safety concerns as it pertains to individuals being placed in incarcerated settings where they cannot protect themselves and are vulnerable.
Do you support legislation that will suspend unnecessary travel to states that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (A 07991/S 06897)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Inclusive Ballot Act (A07933A/S6901B)?
Yes
Do you support the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act (A2230/S70)?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQI-Inclusive curriculum? (A808/S1929)?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring local school districts to establish policies and procedures regarding the treatment of transgender and gender-non conforming students (A840/S369)?
Yes
Do you support protecting the 340B Safety Net?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring unarmed crisis personnel to respond to mental health crises?
Yes
Do you support the Protecting the Rights of Juveniles During Interrogation Act (A5891/S2800)?
yes
Do you support the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act (“HALT”) (A2277/S1757)?
Yes
Do you support the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) (A1248/S854)?
Yes
Do you support legislation to promote comprehensive sex ed in public schools? (A6616/S2584)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would mandate insurance coverage for PrEP/PEP (A808/S699)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would make gender affirming care an essential health benefit?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQ+ History curriculum for public schools (A817/S1729)?
Yes
Do you support the Housing Voucher Access Program (A3701A/S2804B)?
YES
Do you support Good Cause eviction (A5573/S3082)?
YES
Do you support passing a bill of rights for LGBTQ persons in long-term care facilities (A7807/S85)?
Yes
Do you support the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (A849/S4075)?
I need to be educated on this bill some more and educated concerning the sex-work community. I am also open to exploring all the different ways we can support those who face abuse and violence and harsh penalties in this industry.
Do you support legislation to ban the use of conversion therapy on persons over 18 and under legal guardianship? Yes
(Bill numbers based on 2021-2022 legislative session)
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
Office Sought
NYS Assembly, District 43
More Information
timhunter4ny.com
What makes you different (100 words max)?
I am not a politician, I am a community organizer and activist. For years, I have advocated for equitable funding for public institutions like CUNY, and our public schools. In addition, I worked for elected officials in both houses of the legislature under the leadership of State Senator Julia Salazar and Assemblywoman Diana Richardson, and have been able to learn the ins and outs of the NYS legislature. I have always been involved in the fight for social, racial, and economic justice in New York State and I hope to be the true progressive representation in Albany.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany (100 words max)?
I want to serve in the NYS legislature because I believe that a more equitable New York is possible. The people of the 43rd Assembly District deserve more than empty promises, and words, they deserve resources and actions. I believe that when we stop electing politicians, and start electing community leaders and organizers, we will finally achieve a government that works for the working-class people. With my background in activism and service in the neighborhood, I plan to continue the fight for and introduce true progressive causes/legislations, and fight for the working-class.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
I hope to help our constituents be more involved in the process of governing, and view themselves as active stakeholders in our democracy rather than just as voters. I hope to work alongside neighboring elected officials, community leaders, and our young people to make our vision a reality. Many of our constituents have lost faith in our elected leaders as they have sold us out to the real estate lobby and large corporations. We must continue to fight for youth involvement in our democratic process, and I am looking forward to being that coalition builder that our neighborhood needs.
How will you support and empower the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
I’ve always supported and shown up for my LGBTQ comrades, and I’ve endorsed and assisted on the campaign of Chi Osse, a candidate for NYC Council last year, Elisa Crespo, and I fully support and endorse Samy Nemir’s candidacy for NYS Assembly. I will continue to support these candidates, while also support legislation to stop discrimination from occuring against the LGBTQ community, and advocating for issues such as the Transgender Wellness and Equity fund. I will also always call out homophobic and transphobic appointments that occur in our city and state, and will stand in support of our LGBTQ community.
How will you support and empower marginalized Brooklynites (100 words max)?
Our Brooklynites are facing a looming eviction crisis, rising utility rates, and rising costs of living across the board. I believe that we must empower these communities by supporting them through providing access to universal childcare, fully funding our schools, and making our City University of New York tuition free. Investment in Education pays for itself, and quality education has proven to be a vehicle of social upward mobility, and a catalyst for generating tax revenue here in NYS. Education pays for itself, and I hope to engage our Brooklynites by organizing them around it.
Legislation
For each answer regarding a bill, please provide a brief statement if you are in opposition/undecided to the legislation or policy. If in support, simply indicate yes.
Do you support the Decriminalizing Sex Work/Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (“SVSTA”) (A849/S3075)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Recognition Act (A5465/S4402)?
Yes
Do you support the New York Health Act (A 6058/S 5474)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Identity Respect Dignity and Safety Act (A7001A/S6677)?
Yes
Do you support legislation that will suspend unnecessary travel to states that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (A 07991/S 06897)?
Yes
Do you support the Gender Inclusive Ballot Act (A07933A/S6901B)?
Yes
Do you support the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act (A2230/S70)?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQI-Inclusive curriculum? (A808/S1929)?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring local school districts to establish policies and procedures regarding the treatment of transgender and gender-non conforming students (A840/S369)?
Yes
Do you support protecting the 340B Safety Net?
Yes
Do you support legislation requiring unarmed crisis personnel to respond to mental health crises?
Yes
Do you support the Protecting the Rights of Juveniles During Interrogation Act (A5891/S2800)?
Yes
Do you support the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act (“HALT”) (A2277/S1757)?
Yes
Do you support the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) (A1248/S854)
Yes
Do you support legislation to promote comprehensive sex ed in public schools? (A6616/S2584)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would mandate insurance coverage for PrEP/PEP (A808/S699)?
Yes
Do you support legislation which would make gender affirming care an essential health benefit?
Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQ+ History curriculum for public schools (A817/S1729)?
Yes
Do you support the Housing Voucher Access Program (A3701A/S2804B)?
Yes
Do you support Good Cause eviction (A5573/S3082)?
Yes
Do you support passing a bill of rights for LGBTQ persons in long-term care facilities (A7807/S85)?
Yes
Do you support the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (A849/S4075)?
Yes
Do you support legislation to ban the use of conversion therapy on persons over 18 and under legal guardianship?
Yes
(Bill numbers based on 2021-2022 legislative session)
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
Office Sought
NYS Assembly, District 57
More Information
olanikealabi.com
What makes you different (100 words max)?
I am very responsive to the needs and concerns of community residents, and I have a record of achievement and very good leadership performance. https://olanikealabi.com/in-the-news/.
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 because in the 57th Assembly District and now more than ever, we need leaders who will lead and representatives who will represent. We need elected officials who can transcend ideology and make things happen for the betterment of a community. I want to continue the work I've already done to have a positive impact on so many.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
I will introduce and/or co-sponsor legislation for the betterment of all. I will also continue responding to constituent complaints, sponsoring food drives, community/town hall meetings, workshops, forums, legal clinics, etc.
How will you support and empower the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
Legislative Advocacy, Rallies, Protests, Petitions, Phone Banking, Town Hall/Community meetings, etc.
How will you support and empower marginalized Brooklynites (100 words max)?
Legislative Advocacy, Rallies, Protests, Petitions, Phone Banking, Town Hall/Community meetings, etc.
For each answer regarding a bill, please provide a brief statement if you are in opposition/undecided to the legislation or policy. If in support, simply indicate yes.
Do you support the Decriminalizing Sex Work/Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (“SVSTA”) (A849/S3075)? Yes
Do you support the Gender Recognition Act (A5465/S4402)? Yes
Do you support the New York Health Act (A 6058/S 5474)? Yes
Do you support the Gender Identity Respect Dignity and Safety Act (A7001A/S6677)? Yes
Do you support legislation that will suspend unnecessary travel to states that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (A 07991/S 06897)? Yes
Do you support the Gender Inclusive Ballot Act (A07933A/S6901B)? Yes
Do you support the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act (A2230/S70)? Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQI-Inclusive curriculum? (A808/S1929)? Yes
Do you support legislation requiring local school districts to establish policies and procedures regarding the treatment of transgender and gender-non conforming students (A840/S369)? Yes
Do you support protecting the 340B Safety Net? Yes
Do you support legislation requiring unarmed crisis personnel to respond to mental health crises? Yes
Do you support the Protecting the Rights of Juveniles During Interrogation Act (A5891/S2800)? Yes
Do you support the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act (“HALT”) (A2277/S1757)? Yes
Do you support the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) (A1248/S854)? Yes
Do you support legislation to promote comprehensive sex ed in public schools? (A6616/S2584)? Yes
Do you support legislation which would mandate insurance coverage for PrEP/PEP (A808/S699)? Yes
Do you support legislation which would make gender affirming care an essential health benefit? Yes
Do you support creating an LGBTQ+ History curriculum for public schools (A817/S1729)? Yes
Do you support the Housing Voucher Access Program (A3701A/S2804B)? Yes
Do you support Good Cause eviction (A5573/S3082)? Yes
Do you support passing a bill of rights for LGBTQ persons in long-term care facilities (A7807/S85)? Yes
Do you support the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (A849/S4075)? Yes
Do you support legislation to ban the use of conversion therapy on persons over 18 and under legal guardianship? Yes
(Bill numbers based on 2021-2022 legislative session)
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
Office Sought
NYS Assembly, District 57
More Information
pharaforassembly.com
What makes you different (100 words max)?
As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I know what it means to feel racism and prejudice. As a nurse and a new mother, I know firsthand the cruelty and viciousness of a healthcare system that puts profits over people. As a tenant leader, I know the value of a home and the injustice of eviction and gentrification. And as an organizer and legislator, I know the dignity and strength that comes from fighting back as part of a multiracial grassroots movement and the power of standing in solidarity against greed and injustice.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in Albany (100 words max)?
I am a union nurse, tenant activist, and life-long resident of Crown Heights representing central Brooklyn in the New York State Assembly since 2021. I am tired of luxury development, high rents, police brutality, and an inhumane healthcare system. That’s why I’m running for reelection to represent the 57th Assembly District. In office, I have passed laws to increase parole justice and to raise taxes on the wealthy in support of greater social services and have fought for comprehensive healthcare for all New Yorkers and greater protections for workers, families and tenants.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
In my first year in office, I successfully raised $4.5 billion in new revenue by increasing taxes on the rich to fund rental assistance and an Excluded Worker Fund; and passed major legislation to decarcerate and humanize our parole system with Less Is More.
I want to continue to fight for working people by using my next term to push for for comprehensive healthcare for all; to fight for a better-funded, tuition-free CUNY; to get better wages for home health workers; to realize green retrofitting of NYCHA; and to move people out of jails and into real treatment programs.
How will you support and empower the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
If reelected, I will continue to support the LGBTQ community by taking the lead from groups who organize with and advocate for this community. I plan to fight for legislation that protects LGBTQ communities: decriminalizing sex work, making gender-affirming care an essential health benefit, and comprehensive sex education in schools, to name a few. I will also continue to celebrate the achievements and progress of LGBTQ people in their community by amplifying the programming of community groups that focus on LGBTQ issues, such as the LGBTQ Merchants Week and the annual Make the Road Trans Latinx March in Jackson Heights.
How will you support and empower marginalized Brooklynites (100 words max)?
My top priority as a legislator is to protect our most marginalized community members. It’s why I support the New York Health Act—to ensure low-income New Yorkers can afford quality healthcare. It’s why I support Good Cause Eviction, so that no New Yorker has to live in fear of being pushed out of their home due to the interests of wealthy real-estate developers. And it’s why I have introduced the Treatment not Jail bill, so that people with mental health needs get care and support instead of being fed into our unjust carceral system.
Legislation
For each answer regarding a bill, please provide a brief statement if you are in opposition/undecided to the legislation or policy. If in support, simply indicate yes.
Do you support repealing “Walking While Trans” (A3355/S1351)? Yes.
Do you support the Decriminalizing Sex Work/Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (“SVSTA”) (A849/S3075)? Yes.
Do you support the Gender Recognition Act (A5465/S4402)? Yes.
Do you support the New York Health Act (A 6058/S 5474)? Yes.
Do you support the Gender Identity Respect Dignity and Safety Act (A7001A/S6677)? Yes.
Do you support legislation that will suspend unnecessary travel to states that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (A 07991/S 06897)? Yes.
Do you support the Gender Inclusive Ballot Act (A07933A/S6901B)? Yes.
Do you support the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act (A2230/S70)? Yes.
Do you support creating an LGBTQI-Inclusive curriculum? (A808/S1929)? Yes.
Do you support legislation requiring local school districts to establish policies and procedures regarding the treatment of transgender and gender-non conforming students (A840/S369)? Yes.
Do you support protecting the 340B Safety Net? Yes.
Do you support legislation requiring unarmed crisis personnel to respond to mental health crises? Yes.
Do you support the Protecting the Rights of Juveniles During Interrogation Act (A5891/S2800)? Yes.
Do you support the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act (“HALT”) (A2277/S1757)? Yes.
Do you support the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) (A1248/S854)? Yes.
Do you support legislation to promote comprehensive sex ed in public schools? (A6616/S2584)? Yes.
Do you support legislation which would mandate insurance coverage for PrEP/PEP (A808/S699)? Yes.
Do you support legislation which would make gender affirming care an essential health benefit? Yes.
Do you support creating an LGBTQ+ History curriculum for public schools (A817/S1729)? Yes.
Do you support the Housing Voucher Access Program (A3701A/S2804B)? Yes.
Do you support Good Cause eviction (A5573/S3082)? Yes.
Do you support passing a bill of rights for LGBTQ persons in long-term care facilities (A7807/S85)? Yes.
Do you support the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act (A849/S4075)? Yes.
Do you support legislation to ban the use of conversion therapy on persons over 18 and under legal guardianship? Yes.
(Bill numbers based on 2021-2022 legislative session)
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, we will proudly display LID’s logo on all endorsee lists on campaign materials.
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, absolutely.
Office Sought
District Leader, District 57
More Information
mikeb4bklyn.wordpress.com
What makes you different?
As a lifelong resident of Brooklyn, I have experienced elected officials raley engaging with their constituents unless it is" election season. I believe in community engagement, not only with elected officials but also with community leaders & residents connecting with them in finding solutions for their issues. I believe in service, not empty promises.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in the county and state Democratic parties
I believe in inclusion, that every voice should be heard and have an active role\ in government policies making decisions around issues that will affect us and our community, we should not be excluded but included
What difference will you make for your community?
As District Leader, I want to connect & serve our community in the ways that our voters want and need, from our community members to County Committee members, keeping a balance by listing and amplifying the voices & needs of our district that are traditionally underrepresented
What is your vision for a more open and transparent county party organization?
I am committed to unity, transparency, inclusivity, equity, and identity in the County Democratic Party
A Party that works for all of us, not just for a few of us.
How can a District Leader/State Committee Member best support the LGBTQ community
Standing with & showing up and highlighting the issues and concerns that affect the community, working along with the community in finding the solutions to these concerns
How will you commit to actively working to provide more power and autonomy to the members of the County Committee?
Working alongside our reformed DLs & CC members in changing the rules of the Party that will be more inclusive for all members of the County Committee
What recommendations would you make to reform the Board of Elections?
To be more transparent in their process of nominating commissioners to the BOE and also the hiring of poll workers to ensure a fair election process.
Do you support reverting the power to “backfill” open county committee seats back to the county committee?
Yes
Do you commit to developing and participating in community engagement in advance of State Supreme Court nominations by the Executive Committee (eg, public candidate screening forums, community outreach)?
Yes
Will you commit to reasonable attendance at all/most Executive Committee meetings (absent a legitimate reason for not being able to attend, eg, health, child care, travel)?
Yes
Will you commit to reforming rules to ensure that public notice of executive committee and county committee meetings is provided as far in advance as possible (eg, further than 1-2 weeks)?
Yes,
How much time do you think is reasonable?
Will you commit to rules reform limiting the use of proxy voting by district leaders? Yes
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
Office Sought
District Leader, District 57
What makes you different (100 words max)?
Seven years ago I launched a campaign in this community—urging leaders to address closing hospitals and health centers, police-community relations, ineffective government services, widening economic inequality, and the absence of social equity we observe across our City, especially among vulnerable communities.
I was ignored but persisted.
As a former Teacher, Congressional, Obama Administration, and City Hall staffer, I’m a trained policymaker. I have deep roots in the community, and a track record of moving past rhetoric to deliver on tangible insights and solutions.
As District Leader, I will deploy my independent thinking and policy to support our community.
Why do you want to represent your neighbors and fellow Brooklynites in the county and state Democratic parties (100 words max)?
Our community—the heart of Brooklyn—is in crisis. How we recover from Covid, work together—or become bogged down by party conflict—and establish equity and inclusion will be an example for our City and State more broadly.
We are a leading indictor in culture, and if we are able to show cohesion through policy and community organizing, we have the opportunity to be a place of refuge and hope for our neighboring communities.
What difference will you make for your community (100 words max)?
I will offer an independent, creative, even-minded and well-trained policy perspective in the midst of noisy and unproductive antagonism within the party.
I have grown up in Central Brooklyn and witnessed the impact of displacement, mistreatment, and ill-conceived policies; What’s more, I have seen how these policy disproportionately hurt Black, Brown, low-income, and LGBTQ populations the most.
As a Teacher, I observed more LGBTQ students who were cast aside, unsupported, and homeless than I can count—and for these reasons I will always refocus the conversation on what matters.
What is your vision for a more open and transparent county party organization (100 words max)?
The party must move to more clearly establishing shared and widely agreed upon goals that reflect qualitative and quantitative needs of Brooklyn residents. Upon adopting these goals, the party must move to publicly and digitally housing these goals and—importantly—trackers to demonstrate progress to goal.
Models like the above are examples and north-stars for where the party should be trending to facilitate inclusion in the policymaking process.
How can a District Leader/State Committee Member best support the LGBTQ community (100 words max)?
District Leaders and the County more broadly, should be taking a Human Centered Design approach to capturing the perspective, experiences, and needs within the LGBTQ community and structuring clear insights to inform solutions with other elected officials.
In practice, this may look like identifying different constituencies and conducting listening sessions, to elicit the lived experience—what city services, community culture, and policy is trending in a productive manner, and identifying what is not.
From these insights, District Leaders can coordinate a policy agenda with electeds and stakeholders that phases and prioritizes most consequential and addressable issues.
How will you commit to actively working to provide more power and autonomy to the members of the County Committee (100 words max)?
How will you oppose efforts to transfer county committee powers to the executive committee (district leaders) (100 words max)?
I am not well trained in the minutiae of transferring county committee powers to the executive committee powers but I am supportive of one-person-one-vote and open to feedback and input to ensure the most egalitarian and fair process.
What recommendations would you make to reform the Board of Elections (100 words max)?
The board of elections needs an independent review from a third-party, good governance group, a management consultancy, and a government investigatory counsel.
These findings need to be compiled and presented to the community in a pprint and digital manner for community comment.
Those comments, alongside of the recommendations from the third party entities should inform the path forward.
Initially, I would like to see more clear and functional digitization, better outreach, and a complaint repository for the public.
Do you support reverting the power to “backfill” open county committee seats back to county committee members? (Y/N)
No
Do you commit to developing and participating in community engagement in advance of State Supreme Court nominations by the Executive Committee (eg, public candidate screening forums, community outreach)? (Y/N)
Yes
Will you commit to reasonable attendance at all/most Executive Committee meetings (absent a legitimate reason for not being able to attend, eg, health, child care, travel)? (Y/N)
Yes
Will you commit to reforming rules to ensure that public notice of executive committee and county committee meetings is provided as far in advance as possible (eg, further than 1-2 weeks)? (Y/N)? How much time do you think is reasonable?
Yes; 4- to 6 weeks
Will you commit to rules reform limiting the use of proxy voting by district leaders? (Y/N)
Yes
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)? (Y/N)
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…”)(Y/N)
Yes
