As the primary approaches for the 22nd State Senate district, both Democratic candidates are racking up endorsements while trying to build momentum for their respective campaigns.
Ross Barkan announced endorsements from two Democratic Party district leaders as well as a prominent political club, while Andrew Gounardes picked up endorsements from two large political clubs in Brooklyn, one with a long history of supporting him.
The two candidates are vying against each other in the Sept. 13 primary, with the winner facing incumbent State Sen. Marty Golden (R-Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, Marine Park, Gerritsen Beach, Gravesend, parts of Sheepshead Bay, Borough Park, Midwood) in the Nov. 6.
Barkan picked up endorsements from District Leaders Ari Kagan and Margarita Kagan (not related), who both said Barkan is the right man to take the senate back for the Democrats in an important race.
“Ross Barkan is a dynamic, talented, hard-working person who cares deeply about our community and brings people together,” Ari Kagan said, “His innovative approach, determination to reform government and ability to find creative ways to solve difficult problems are impressive. Ross Barkan represents a change, a breath of a fresh air and I am very glad to endorse his candidacy for State Senate.”
Margarita Kagan cited Barkan’s history as a success in his past, saying his determination as will carry over to the state senate to fight for the people of Southern Brooklyn.
“Ross Barkan is a great journalist and community leader, caring and knowledgeable person,” said Margarita Kagan. “I was impressed by his determination to improve our outdated transportation system and to make sure we are ready for the next storms and hurricanes. Ross will be a great Senator who will fight in Albany for residents of Southern Brooklyn. I am proud to endorse him for State Senate.”
Barkan, who is currently petitioning to get on the ballot, said he is excited for the endorsement because the district leaders have a long history of understanding what the people of his district both want and need.
“I am so humbled and thrilled to have the support of Bay Democrats, District Leader Ari Kagan, and District Leader Margarita Kagan as we campaign to clean up Albany and bring back the resources to Southern Brooklyn that we deserve,” Barkan said, “Ari and Margarita are true community leaders. They understand the value of service like few others. Their club, Bay Democrats, is a powerhouse in our neighborhoods for a reason: because it represents the diversity of our district and seeks to unite people of all backgrounds to do good for the community.”
Meanwhile, Gounardes picked up the endorsements of two prominent political clubs – the Bay Ridge Democrats, which is the largest Democratic club in Bay Ridge, and the Lambda Independent Democrats (LID), the largest Democratic club in Bay Ridge and the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) political organization.
“Andrew’s race is one of the most important in the entire state, as it could decide which party controls the state senate, and Andrew is the strong leader we need to win,” said Reem Jaafar, Bay Ridge Democrats Vice-President.
The club recognized Gournardes for his commitment to strong community leadership, and that his platform is one that benefits everyone.
“Andrew understands our issues and knows how to advocate for the changes we need to make our schools better, streets safer for pedestrians and subways more accessible. He shares our values and is passionate about ensuring that everyone in our community feels welcome. We know that when elected he will fight hard for us in Albany,” she said.
Gounardes, who is also petitioning to get on the ballot, has 30 people out on the streets collecting petitions. His campaign is attempting to collect 4,000 signatures for the ballot.
“I’m honored to have the support of the Bay Ridge Democrats, one of the most active and impactful political clubs in all of Brooklyn,” Gounardes said, “Our grassroots campaign is growing at a rapid pace and with your help, we will bring about the change our community needs.”
Gournardes prides himself on being inclusive for all aspects of the community. He says his campaign is about “hard work and hustle,” and being as inclusive as possible, a reason why the LID endorsed him.
“The State Senate race in the 22nd district in Southern Brooklyn is critical,” said Scott Klein, President of Lambda Independent Democrats of Brooklyn, “We need a Senator who will champion the rights of all constituents, not just the few. We need someone to bring the blue wave to Albany. That person is Andrew Gounardes, and we are proud to support him.”
Andrew also received LID’s endorsement when he ran for this seat in 2012. He plans on introducing a women and children platform next month.
“I’m humbled and proud to once again have the support of LID. My parents raised me to believe that love is love and to fight against injustice. Albany has tremendous power to ensure protections to all communities. When elected Democrats will be in a position to pass fundamental legislation like GENDA, to guarantee equal rights to all New Yorkers.”
