Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer recently announced that she’s backing City Councilman Jumaane Williams (D-Flatbush, Midwood) in the Public Advocate special election.
This marks the first time that a Borough President has endorsed a candidate in a special election. Brewer sent out a letter yesterday detailing why she thinks Williams is the best candidate for the office, citing his long history as an activist and his strong record on social justice.
“The honest respect Jumaane has for others; for the stranger, friend, or colleague; his way with a good word even for those he disagrees with- in politics that kind of character sets you apart, and it comes in handy, too, because ‘when they go low (and they will), he goes high,'” said Brewer. “It’s not hard to have a record to run on. But creating important laws that help and protect people as Jumaane has done, that’s not easy. It takes vision, and leadership. Persuading and coalition-building. Earning trust, and sharing credit. These assets come naturally to Jumaane, and it shows in his success and, in a crowded field, note his long list of endorsements.”
When asked for comment, Williams welcomed the endorsement with open arms, claiming that he has just as much respect for Brewer as she has for him.
“Gale Brewer is one the most well-respected, hardworking elected officials in New York City and I am honored to receive her endorsement for Public Advocate,” said Williams.”We share the same vision of a New York City free of hate and bigotry, where every person regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or nation of origin is protected and proud to call New York City home. As the people’s advocate I will work as hard as I can to bring the vision to fruition.”
With her endorsement, Gale Brewer has contributed to the list of over two dozen public officials who have endorsed Jumaane Williams – a list that includes City Councilman Ben Kallos (D-Yorkville, Lenox Hill), City Council Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo (D-Fort Greene, Crown Heights) and former Public Advocate Mark Green.
The Public Advocate special election is slated for Tuesday, Feb. 26.
