“Last year, a new era dawned in Albany with the defeat of the IDC (Independent Democratic Conference), the Republicans, and do-nothing Democrats who cozy up to real estate and special interests instead of speaking out for their constituents. As an immigrant and a member of the LGBTQ community, I’ve seen firsthand the progress we’ve made. But our fight for affordable housing, fully-funded public schools, and access to healthcare is not over. That’s why I’m running for State Senate: to fight for our values and deliver the change we need,” said Pierre.
Pierre and his family emigrated from Haiti when he was five, and he has lived in the 21st District ever since. He attended public schools and graduated from Baruch College with a degree in accounting.
Pierre most recently served as the Brooklyn Borough Director for City Comptroller Scott Stringer where he led a team to connect Brooklyn residents with government resources and services. Pierre has served as a Democratic District Leader for the 42nd Assembly District since 2016 and is a founding member of the Shirley Chisholm Democratic Club.
“Special interests will continue to dominate Albany until we elect leadership that listens to people instead of corporations. That’s why I’m pledging not to take a cent from special interests or corporate PACs from day one. Ever since I came to America, I’ve seen the power of our communities and government coming together. Now more than ever, we need our elected representatives to protect our seniors, our children, and our livelihoods. I am ready to be that fighter,” said Pierre.
Parker, first elected in 2002, is known both for his quick temper that has gotten him both bad press and skirmishes with the law in the past, and his excellent knowledge and ability as a legislator. In the past, he has been an outspoken critic of the IDC, and was a major player in the recent legislative session on getting historic rent reforms and other progressive legislation passed.
Parker has characteristically been a big supporter of both African- and Caribbean-American issues, as well as Israel. This may not bode that well in the white and LGBTQ progressive side of the district, where Pierre is well known and well-liked.
This white and gentrifying sides of Brooklyn has become a powerful force in recent elections as evidenced by both State Sen. Julia Salazar‘s victory over incumbent Sen. Martin Dilan, and State Sen. Zellnor Myrie‘s victory over incumbent Sen. Jesse Hamilton in last year’s state races.
In both these races, mainly white and/or quickly gentrifying neighborhoods carried the day for the insurgents, while the traditional Hispanic neighborhoods went with Dilan, and the historically black neighborhoods went with Hamilton.
Pierre on paper should get a good portion of the Haitian vote, particularly if Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte and City Council Member Farah Louis back Pierre. This is not a given, however, at this point.
One thing to look at early is how much money Pierre will be able to report for his campaign filings in January. A good number to exceed would be $100,000, and the more the better.
