June 29, 2022 (New York, NY)–In response to the results of the Democratic primaries for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Citizen Action of New York State Political Director Stanley Fritz had the following to say:
“Sometimes, we win even though we don’t get the votes we need. Now that the primaries for the New York Governor’s race are over, Citizen Action of New York congratulates former candidate for Governor, Jumaane D. Williams, and Lt. Governor candidate Ana Maria Archila for running a great race. Working together, the two championed progressive ideals that tangibly shaped the conversation around the policies and priorities that everyday New Yorkers need and want.
Congratulations to Governor Kathy Hochul, the Democratic nominee for Governor, almost certain to hold her seat against a Republican challenger in November. Congratulations to Antonio Delgado, who gave up his role as Congressman to fill the empty seat of Lieutenant Governor and now will continue to serve in the role for the next four years.
Primary Day may be in the rearview mirror, but the issues at the center of this race must remain priorities for the Governor and Lt. Governor. Citizen Action of New York members expect to be able to work with them to pass the policies that New Yorkers really want and need: low-cost, high-quality housing; climate justice; voter protections; and criminal legal system reform. We will continue to hold them accountable to prioritize the needs of everyday New Yorkers over corporate donors and the ultra-wealthy.
In particular, we look to Lt. Governor Delgado to take the Lt. Governor’s role beyond ribbon-cutting ceremonies and rubberstamping the Governor. He has an opportunity in this role to be a true champion of the people. Citizen Action of New York is looking to Lt. Governor Delgado to roll up his sleeves and work hard to pass the policies that will have the biggest impact for New Yorkers. We need to see him out front on issues like universal child care and health care. He has fought for them in Congress and now we need him to bring that fight to the Lt. Governor’s office.
Citizen Action of New York members care deeply about these issues and together, we knocked on thousands of doors and made thousands of phone calls to voters ahead of the primaries. We know the majority of everyday New Yorkers support families’ access to child care and the basic human right to health care. We are hopeful and optimistic that in Lt. Governor Delgado, we will have an ally and a champion of progressive change.
Citizen Action members and our allies will continue to show up to Albany and demand the passage of policies that our communities need to thrive. Together, we are building grassroots political power that demands our shared values be at the heart of government–human dignity and justice–so we create a New York that works for everyone.”
Stanley Fritz is the New York State Political and Campaigns Director of Citizen Action of New York.
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