Republican Marko Kepi has officially announced he is running for City Council in Staten Island’s District 50 race, currently held by term-limited Minority Leader Steven Matteo.
Born in Albania, Kepi is a former United States Marine and has served as office staff for former State Senator Martin Golden. In last June’s Republican primary, Kepi was defeated by Michael Tannousis for the New York State Assembly District 64 race.
Kepi is one of seven candidates with the most in fundraising so far, with over $44,000, and has filed more than 2,400 nominating petitions, said his campaign. Candidate David M. Carr is right behind him in fundraising with just over $42,000.
Other Republican candidates in the running include Jordan Hafizi, George S. Wonica, Sam T. Pirozzolo, and Kathleen Sforza. Sal F. Albanese is the sole Democratic candidate in the race for the second time.
Kepi has been endorsed by New York City Republicans, former US Rep Michael Grimm, Former US Rep Joe DioGuardi and former Senator Marty Golden.
“Our message is resonating with the voters of the district and I am energized by the support of those I have already met going door to door,” said Kepi. “The people of this district are looking for their next Councilmember to focus on improving the quality of life of our neighborhood, keeping our community safe, and leading our recovery efforts in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic. Our schools need to reopen, our businesses need relief, and we need to safely resume activities where possible on behalf of those who call the Mid-Island home.”
Kepi said he’d stand up to the “onslaught of radical policies put forth by the progressive left.”
“My fundraising success and the overwhelming number of signatures securing my place on the June primary ballot, are the best endorsements of my candidacy I could receive. It is the people that matter and I will always put them first,” said Kepi.
