Citizen Action of New York Endorses New York City Candidates Committed to Social and Economic Justice

by | Mar 31, 2025 | New York City, Press Releases | 0 comments

(New York, NY) – The New York City Chapter of Citizen Action of New York has announced a slate of endorsements for candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing social and economic justice. These endorsed candidates have pledged to fight for progressive policies that prioritize the needs of working families, racial and economic equity, and investments in public services that strengthen communities.

“Our endorsed candidates share our vision of a New York where everyone has access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, fully funded public schools, and a fair economy that works for all,” said Jesse Koklas, NYC Regional Director at Citizen Action of New York. “We need leaders who will stand up to corporate interests, push for bold policies that uplift working people, and ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of zip code, has the resources they need to thrive.”

The candidates endorsed by Citizen Action of New York’s New York City Chapter include:

  • Justin Brannan for NYC Comptroller;
  • Antonio Reynoso for Brooklyn Borough President;  
  • Harvey Epstein for NYC City Council, District 2;
  • Wilfredo López for NYC City Council, District 8;
  • Pierina Sanchez for NYC City Council, District 14;
  • Justin Sanchez for NYC City Council, District 17;
  • Erycka Montoya for NYC City Council, District 21;
  • Latoya LeGrand for NYC City Council, District 28;
  • Crystal Hudson for NYC City Council, District 35;
  • Alexa Avilés for NYC City Council, District 38; and 
  • Shahana Hanif for NYC City Council, District 39.

“I’m so grateful to have Citizen Action on my side as we fight for universal childcare, truly affordable housing, and environmental justice,” said Justin Brannan, candidate for New York City Comptroller. “Fighting back against the Trump agenda at home means ensuring New York City works for working people, not just the wealthy and well-connected. New York City will never survive as a playground for the rich. Together we can build a palace for working people where everyone has a fair shot and is treated with dignity and respect.”

“My primary goal as Borough President has been to help create ‘A Brooklyn for All’ because every community here deserves to thrive,” said Antonio Reynoso, candidate for Brooklyn Borough President. “Over the past three years Citizen Action NY has been a critical ally in that mission. From supporting affordable housing and maternal health to fixing our broken mental health system I look forward to continuing to work together in my second term and thank them for their endorsement.” 

“I have worked alongside Citizen Action for years and have championed many of their issue campaigns, including fighting for affordable housing, healthcare, climate initiatives, criminal justice reform, and gender justice,” said Harvey Epstein, candidate for NYC City Council District 2. “I am privileged to have earned the endorsement of Citizen Action in my campaign for NYC Council District 2 and will continue to be a vocal ally to their critical work on the Council.”

“Citizen Action of New York has been a force for good across the state, the city, and here in our communities in East Harlem and the South Bronx,” said Wilfredo López, candidate for NYC City Council District 8. “I am humbled by their endorsement and promise that I will always be on the side of everyday New Yorkers, pursuing positive change and striving for greater justice.” 

“I am deeply grateful for Citizen Action’s support and proud to have them as part of my growing coalition of supporters,” said Pierina Sanchez, candidate for NYC City Council District 14. “Their commitment to justice and equity aligns with the work we’ve done in District 14 to fight for truly progressive change. Now, more than ever, with a federal administration attacking our rights and values, we must stand united to protect our communities and push forward a bold vision for a fairer, more just New York City.”

“I am proud and honored to have earned the endorsement of Citizen Action of New York,” said Justin Sanchez, candidate for NYC City Council District 17. “This campaign is fighting for our community and our working families – and this endorsement underscores our commitment to the big fights that truly overhaul systems and create a better future that we all can believe in. Together, we will dream big, fight hard, and win!”  

“I am deeply honored and proud to receive the support and endorsement of Citizen Action of NY,” said Erycka Montoya, candidate for NYC City Council District 21. “Citizen Action has been on the front lines of the fight for justice, and champions the causes that are at the heart of our campaign. Together, we will fight to ensure that all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, can afford a roof over their heads and look forward to a brighter, more just, equitable, and dignified future.”

“I’m deeply honored to receive the endorsement of Citizen Action of New York. As a mother, an education advocate, and someone who’s felt firsthand what it means to be left out by the system, I’m running to build a city that truly works for all of us,” said Latoya LeGrand, candidate for NYC City Council District 28. “Citizen Action’s bold vision for racial, economic, and social justice aligns perfectly with the values at the heart of my campaign. Together, we’re building grassroots power to ensure every family in District 28 has access to affordable housing, quality public education, and a government that puts people first. I’m proud to stand alongside Citizen Action as we fight for a more just and equitable New York City.”

“I am honored to accept the endorsement of Citizen Action of New York, an organization that shares my vision for a New York City that works for all of us, not just the privileged few,” said Crystal Hudson, candidate for NYC City Council District 35.

“For the last 40 years, Citizen Action of New York has played a pivotal role in securing major wins for New York’s working class — from increasing the minimum wage, to ending tax breaks for the state’s ultra-wealthy,” said Alexa Avilés, candidate for NYC City Council District 38. “I’m proud to be endorsed by Citizen Action, and am excited to build together a New York City where working people can thrive.”

“I’m honored to have the endorsement of Citizen Action of New York, an organization that has been at the forefront of fighting for racial, social, and economic justice in our communities,” said  Shahana Hanif, candidate for NYC City Council District 39.With Citizen Action’s support, I’m ready to keep up the fight and continue delivering real change for Brooklyn families.”