Jessica Ramos and City Councilmember Jumaane Williams (D-Brooklyn) endorsed each other’s runs on Wednesday evening in LeFrak City.
Williams, who is running as Lieutenant Governor with Cynthia Nixon, believed there existed a “true blue wave” throughout New York. He viewed Jessica Ramos as part of that wave.
“We’re in a time that any blue just doesn’t do,” he said.
He explained there existed a difference between officials who react and lead in response to a sudden progressive shift. The Councilmember did not believe those in the former category could be elected any longer.
“We’ve been saying for a long time to our leaders that we need action,” Williams said.
When referring to the political landscape, Williams noted a shift in tone since he first assumed office in the City Council nine years ago. Whereas before he felt his views were not embraced across the mainstream, they are now spoken frequently on and off the campaign trail.
“Party unity for establishment Democrats usually means activists shut up,” he said. “Now we’re learning that people want to hear what we have to say.”
Ramos, who is challenging State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Woodside) in next month’s Democratic primary, felt the Brooklyn lawmaker’s presence in Albany could make a difference for a progressive platform.
“Councilmember Williams has an impeccable track record in support of families, workers, renters, [and] the most vulnerable New Yorkers who need Albany to step up and deliver for us,” she said.
She spoke about the importance of rent reform in State Senate District 13 and called it the top issue affecting residents. She cited Williams’ record on tenant rights as an example of what is needed elsewhere in the city.
If elected to the State Senate, Ramos pledged to act on behalf of renters. She described the city’s lack of control on rent regulations as an issue that needs to be addressed in the State Senate.
“The cost of living here doesn’t really compared to any of the large cities in New York. Our rent laws can’t be determined by a Republican chair of that committee in the Senate,” Ramos said.
Williams and Ramos did not spend too much time talking about their endorsements with the two canvassing for their campaigns as the September 13th primary looms near.
The Democratic primary is set for Thursday, September 13th.
