Since announcing his candidacy for Lieutenant Governor on February 16, City Councilman Jumaane Williams (D-Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood) has collected several endorsements from progressive political leaders around the state, as he gears up to challenge current Lt. Gov Kathy Hochul in the Democratic Primary in September.
Fellow City Council Member Brad Lander (D-Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Kensington, Gowanus) tweeted his support for Williams, saying he was “proud to endorse my long time friend and partner for justice.”
Councilman Antonio Reynoso (D-Bushwick, Williamsburg) called Williams a “fighter for equality and social justice,” who would “undoubtedly continue his efforts as Lt. Gov.”
State Senator Kevin Parker (D-Flatbush) spoke at Williams’ announcement, calling for progressive change in the Albany.
The office of Lieutenant Governor has traditionally been a symbolic one, with limited legislative responsibilities. Williams’ entry into the race, however, has sparked a proxy battle between the progressive left and the more moderate factions within the party.
Helping to cement his image as a champion of progressivism, Williams secured the endorsement of The People for Bernie Sanders, a grassroots activist group spawned from the 2016 presidential candidacy of the Vermont Senator. The group’s cofounder Winnie Wong touted “Jumaane’s track record of justice-seeking activism and solidarity with impacted communities and working people.” Williams responded, saying he was “immensely proud” to receive the endorsement.
Shortly after launching his candidacy, Williams appeared on the New York Times’ list “Future Lions of New York,” alongside the likes of Michael Bloomberg, Tina Fey and Beyoncé.
Williams hopes to turn the endorsements and newfound notoriety into public support as he challenges an established incumbent in Hochul, but first, he needs to work to appear on the ballot at all.
New York State requires 15,000 signatures, including a minimum 100 signatures from within half of the state’s congressional districts, for ballot access in the Democratic primary.
Should Williams obtain the necessary petitions, he will appear on the ballot for the Sept. 13 Democratic Primary. The winner of the Lt. Governor race will automatically be on the ballot as part of the Democratic Party ticket for the Nov. 6 general election.
