Mizan Choudhury remembers the first job he had when coming to the U.S. from Bangladesh in 1997: working at Trump Tower.
“I’m not even sure Donald Trump remembers me when I was working at Trump Tower,” he said before laughing.
Since then, the Bellerose resident worked in a variety of Fortune 500 companies, worked with state and local officials, and launched a Democratic campaign to run in the 5th Congressional District.
Choudhury is one of two candidates challenging long-time incumbent U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica, Laurelton, Rosedale, Cambria Heights, Saint Albans, Springfield Gardens, Far Rockaway) for the upcoming Democratic primary.
“I believe it is time for change, and we need a progressive candidate for Congressional District 5. We have to go to Washington and make changes,” he said.
Mizan Choudhury shared his vision for the district that includes job training, affordable housing, and civic engagement. Indeed, he emphasized how his own experiences and background shaped his platform to ensure the best for the community he knows well.
“I am a self-made man… I want to take my experience. I want to work for the community. I want to understand the community,” he said.
The priority is jobs, a key part of his vision for the district. He offered vocational training as one solution to decrease unemployment in the district and provide a better standard of living for residents.
Furthermore, he envisioned attracting technology companies to the district that would recruit workers, including youths. This would address the issue of unemployment.
“We have to bring jobs to our district,” he said.
The water situation in Elmont is another issue he wants addressed. There is an abnormal rate of cancer in the community with tap water as the suspected cause.
“When I go to Washington, first thing I want to do is work with the EPA and make sure they come in to test the water,” Choudhury said.
In addition, Choudhury referred to the topic of gun violence affecting the nation. He expressed concerns over lack of laws that prevent more shootings from happening. He favors the stronger background checks and ensuring only adults over the age of 21 can purchase a gun.
The candidate noted the importance of meeting with residents and understanding their concerns. He felt Rep. Meeks did not do enough to make his presence known in the district.
“Don’t you think it’s important for him to come the people and ask about their issues?” he said.
With a few weeks left until the campaign, Choudhury pledges to meet with constituents in the area to improve his visibility on the campaign trail. He looked forward to a potential win on June 26th. In fact, if elected, Choudhury would want to organize town halls with residents in the district to ensure the people know their representative well.
“I want to know what they’re going through in their lives. I will go out and do what it takes to make it happen,” said Choudhury.
The Democratic primary is Tuesday, June 26.
