Campaign Insiders is PoliticsNY’s latest Q&A series featuring candidates running for office in the 2026 New York primary election. This edition of Campaign Insiders features Patrick Martinez who is running to represent New York’s 30th Assembly District. The 30th Assembly District is located in Queens and includes the neighborhoods of Woodside, Elmhurst, East Elmhurst, Maspeth and Jackson Heights.
What are the top three issues for your campaign?
My campaign prioritizes housing affordability, sustainable urban development and community inclusion. We must expand high-density housing that remains accessible to working-class families while modernizing our infrastructure to handle climate change. Additionally, I am committed to economic empowerment for everyone, especially underrepresented groups, ensuring our local small business sectors provide pathways to stable, high-paying careers for all residents of District 30.
Why did you decide to run for office?
Growing up in Elmhurst, I saw how policy impacts families firsthand. My international experiences showed me that efficient, modern urban living is possible, but it requires proactive leadership. I’m running to bring that vision to New York and keep neighborhoods I call home great for the next generation. Having served on Community Board 2, I’ve seen the gaps in our current system, and I am ready to fight for a more equitable, forward-thinking Queens.
What do you believe is the top issue facing voters and how do you plan to address it if elected?
The housing crisis is the defining challenge for our neighbors. To address it, I will advocate for increased funding for Mitchell-Lama housing, as well as more deeply affordable housing options with new developments. My plan focuses on increasing density near transit hubs while mandating deeper affordability levels. By streamlining the development of sustainable, multi-family housing, we can lower costs and ensure that longtime residents aren’t priced out of the communities they helped build.
How does your background qualify you to hold office?
My qualifications blend local roots with global perspective and legislative experience. As a Community Board member, I’ve navigated the complexities of city government and land use, and my district leader experience has me engaging groups from all corners of the district. My private-sector experience in tech startups and nonprofits like “Coalition for Queens” taught me how to bridge the gap between innovation and job placement, ensuring our district stays competitive in a changing economy.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
I offer a unique mix of community-first advocacy and technical expertise. I have a proven track record of building coalitions, from co-founding the Queens Forward Democratic Club to working with Assembly Member Steven Raga. I understand the specific needs of our distinct neighborhoods, from flooding to transportation to quality of life. I don’t just identify problems; I apply my background in sustainability, land use, and community to deliver actionable, progressive solutions for our district.
From now until early voting, Campaign Insiders will be featuring candidates from select democratic primary races across the City & State. Be sure to check back to hear from a wide range of candidates from assembly, senate, and congressional races as well as the NYS comptroller race!
Early voting in NYC is June 13th-21st and Election Day is June 23rd. Check out the PoliticsNY Election Primer to see who will be on your ballot and don’t forget to vote this June!
