As New York City prepares for one of its largest election cycles in recent memory, there is one city council race that will directly impact the northwest Bronx’s District 18 which encompasses the neighborhoods of Soundview, Castle Hill, Parkchester, Clason Point.
There are seven candidates poised to replace former Councilman Ruben Diaz, Sr., who announced his political retirement last July.
Those running in the Tuesday, June 22 primary include: Amanda Farias, William Rivera, Mohammed Mujumder, Michael Beltzer, Darlene Jackson, Mirza Rashid, and Eliú Lara.
The Bronx Times asked each candidate a few questions to help you get to know them. Their answers have been edited for length and clarity.
Amanda Farias
Why are you running?
Growing up in CD18 was not my choice, but remaining here has been. My grandparents raised my mother here, who in turn raised my brothers and I here. I’m running for City Council to invest in the same community that has invested so much in me over the course of my life.
