Despite having an openly gay candidate in the race, Lambda Independent Democrats overwhelming went with 24-year incumbent Congressman Jerrold Nadler last week in their primary endorsement forum.
But at least the borough’s only LBGT Democratic Club invited Oliver Rosenberg, his gay opponent, and for that the insurgent hopeful was thankful.
“I walked in and two-thirds of the audience was already wearing Jerry Nadler stickers,” said Rosenberg. “That being said, the members were were respectful. They listened to me and afterward people said they liked my speech and said I had a bright future in politics. I was very honored they had the sense of character and invited me. Most of the other clubs which are largely funded by Nadler, including the Stonewall Democrats didn’t even invite me.”
LID Vice President Matthew McMorrow said Rosenberg made a good presentation, but ultimately the club decided to support Nadler.
“Congressman Nadler has been pushing for a Stonewall National Monument, was a lead sponsor of the marriage equality bill and has pushed for HIV/AIDS funding,” said McMorrow. “In addition, he’s a progressive and we’re a progressive club, and Nadler has a stellar record as a progressive and he’s one of the smartest people in Congress.”
Nadler Campaign Manager Daniel Schwarz said the campaign was thrilled to yet again have the endorsement of the Lambda Independent Democrats of Brooklyn. “Congressman Nadler has been a tireless advocate for LGBT and progressive issues, and we appreciate LID’s continued support and the important work they do on behalf of the LGBT community,” he said.
LID also endorsed Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, whose opponents in the primary include Yungman Lee and Jeff Kurzon.
“I’ve been proud to stand with our LGBT community my entire life and time in public office,” said Velazquez. “Whether it is the freedom to marry, efforts to fight hate crimes or our work to end discrimination against transgendered people, we have made significant progress and I will continue fighting for equality for all New Yorkers. In that regard, I’m honored to have Lambda Independent Democrats’ endorsement.”
The political club also endorsed Congressman Hakeem Jeffires, who is running unopposed.
