The Bronx was one of the most afflicted areas by COVID-19 in the entire city of New York. The next borough president of the Bronx will be tasked with leading a recovery that has exacerbated a ton of issues the borough was already facing.
Vanessa Gibson, a candidate for Bronx Borough President, feels as though she is the best suited to lead that recovery, though she knows it will be a long one. She says her experience serving in roles in both city and state governments has prepared her for the job.
“I am the only candidate in the race who has state experience as a former state assembly member, as well as city experience as a former council member,” said Gibson. “I think I stand out because of my record of accomplishment.”
Gibson’s focus is on bringing jobs back to Bronxites. She wants to create sustainable green jobs while also helping fix some of the food insecurity issues the Bronx has faced.
“The Bronx for a very long time has been short-changed and denied our fair opportunity,” said Gibson. “We have to get people back to work.”
The Bronx is the unhealthiest county in the state. It has the highest rates of asthma, heart disease, and COVID-19. Counties with large minority populations and high rates of poverty are often ranked as less healthy. One of Gibson’s priorities is to bring low-cost healthcare to Bronxites.
The lack of affordable housing in the Bronx has contributed to homelessness. Surging rent prices have plagued the borough. Eviction rates and housing violations have made it difficult for residents to find affordable housing. Gibson wants to create more affordable housing for residents.
“We have to make sure housing is accessible to everyone regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic status,” said Gibson.
If Gibson were elected, it would be a historical moment. She would be both the first African-American and the first woman to be Bronx borough president.
“Women of color are still shattering the glass ceiling in 2021,” said Gibson, who is family and faith-oriented. ‘We are still defying the odds many think we can’t do or don’t think we will.”
