Disclosure: The author participated in the WFP interview process but these endorsements are not his nor those of The Yonkers Ledger.
The Working Families Party Westchester/Putnam Chapter has now released all of its endorsements for various candidates in Yonkers. These endorsements act as a seal of approval from this minor political party that champions progressive ideals like fair housing and universal healthcare. While endorsement does not guarantee one’s place on the ballot line, it is the strongest signal to party voters on who best represents their values.
Mayor of Yonkers – Corazón Pineda-Isaac
The nine-year City Council Member from the 2nd district hopes to gain momentum over multiple rivals by saying after the endorsement, “The time is now to bring a fresh vision to the Mayor’s office that moves our city forward.”
City Council District 1 – Shatika Parker
Westchester County Board of Legislators staffer, Shatika Parker, secures her second party endorsement after beating out Deana Robinson for the Yonkers Democratic Committee nod last week.
City Council District 3 – Hector Santiago
Political newcomer and long-time community advocate Hector Santiago can use this endorsement as a sign of his viability against incumbent Tasha Diaz.
County Legislator District 14 – David Tubiolo
David Tubiolo cements his left-wing standing with another WFP endorsement after being on the GOP ticket only two cycles ago.
County Legislator District 15 – Ruth Walter
The previously-endorsed and former office-holder Ruth Walter will use this additional ballot line against Republican incumbent James Nolan. Nolan will likely have both the GOP and Conservative lines in November.
County Legislator District 16 – Christopher Johnson
Incumbent and WCBOL Majority Leader Christopher Johnson again receives the WFP endorsement. This will bolster his standing among constituents as a fighter for progressive policies against challenger Shanae Williams.
County Legislator District 17 – Jose Alvarado
Long-time legislator Jose Alvarado receives the WFP endorsement despite being unopposed in the Democratic primary. Though the additional ballot line could be helpful as he will be challenged in the general by Republican Jose Diaz.
Peter Bernstein, Chair of the Westchester/Putnam chapter of the WFP, shared his ambition for the slate of candidates this year.
We look forward to working with Corazón, Shatika, Hector, and all of our endorsed candidates at the County-level to build a Yonkers that is safe, healthy, and affordable for everyone.
The petitioning process is currently underway where the above candidates will gather the small number of requisite signatures that will formally place them on the Working Families Party ballot. There is also an “Opportunity to Ballot” procedure that affords non-endorsed candidates a path to seek to be the nominee representing the party.
Primary elections are on June 27th and the general is November 7th, 2023.
