The progressive Working Families Party will endorse Alexa Avilés in the election to replace term-limited legislator Carlos Menchaca as Sunset Park’s City Council Member, citing her experience as an education activist to boost her over a crowded field of candidates.
“From championing immigrant justice to leading the fight for school equity in her neighborhood, Alexa is a trusted and proven leader in southwest Brooklyn,” said New York Working Families Party Director Sochie Nnaemeka. “We’re fired up to hit the pavement for her, and to work together to rebuild our city for working people when they win come November.”
The Working Families endorsement is the second big-name endorsement for Avilés, the longtime president of the PS 172 PTA, after last month gaining the support of the New York Democratic Socialists of America, who are fresh off a round of upset victories in the June primaries for state offices.
“The WFP has been leading the fight for real political change in New York and across the country for many years, and I am excited to be a WFP candidate,” Avilés said. “Together with WFP, I am ready to throw down for a People’s Budget that moves money from harmful and ineffective carceral systems to reinvest in vital community programs and services that support the health and well-being of New Yorkers and our communities.”
Support from the Working Families Party — which earned enough votes to keep its ballot line in the November general elections — will come along with considerable grassroots resources for campaign activities and canvassing. Coupled with the support of the DSA, Avilés is well positioned to lead a meticulously organized campaign in the 38th District.
Working Families and DSA have a proven track record in Sunset Park and Red Hook, as incoming Assemblywoman Marcela Mitaynes earned the endorsement of both groups for the June primary, where she dethroned long-time incumbent Felix Ortiz.
This year’s Council races will substantially alter the makeup of New York’s legislature, as 39 of 55 members are barred by term limits from seeking reelection.
The primaries for City Council elections will be held on June 22, and the general election will take place on November 2.
