Standing on the steps of City Hall on Monday, surrounded by several hundred supporters, United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew endorsed New York City Council Member Robert Jackson for Manhattan borough president.
“For more than 30 years, Robert Jackson has fought for New York City’s public school children and has been their champion and advocate,” said Mulgrew. “He understands personally the power of education and has fought to make sure every child has the chance for the best education possible.
“From suing the state and walking 150 miles to Albany to fix a school aid formula that was cheating our public school children, to standing up against unfair school closures and budget cuts, Robert Jackson has fought tirelessly for our children, their parents and the entire school community. He knows how to get things done and has a record to prove it,” Mulgrew said.
Jackson, who has already received endorsements from former New York City Mayor David Dinkins, the Stagehands Union, Local 147 and the Sandhogs Union, happily accepted the endorsement.
“My campaign is getting a great reception every place we go,” said Jackson. “This is a major endorsement and another sign of the momentum we are feeling as we build a large and diverse grassroots campaign that is moving this campaign forward. I look forward to working with the UFT to win this campaign. Together, we can make a difference for families today, and for generations to come.”
Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, New York state Sen. Eric Adams welcomed the endorsements of the New York City Corrections Officers’ Association (COBA) and the Assistant Deputy Wardens/Deputy Wardens Association for Brooklyn borough president.
“Whether it’s keeping our jails safe, looking out for working families or helping New Yorkers hurt by Hurricane Sandy through relief efforts, COBA and its members have Brooklyn’s back,” said Adams. “As a former member of law enforcement, I’m humbled the ‘Boldest’ have my back as well. I look forward to working with them to make Brooklyn the best borough it can be.”
COBA President Norman Seabrook stated that Adams’ stance against gun violence drew him to the current state senator.
“Communities all across New York are suffering, whether it is from the lack of affordable housing, low paying jobs or the epidemic of gun violence that continues to plague our streets and hold our neighbors hostage in their own homes,” said Seabrook. “That is precisely why we need new leaders with bold visions who can help all of our citizens, from Inwood to Battery Park and Bay Ridge to Brooklyn Heights, to conquer new horizons and that’s why I am proud to announce our endorsement of Senator Eric Adams for Brooklyn Borough President.”
“Adams will bring the same energy to the borough of Brooklyn as he has in the state Senate, fighting for justice and strong law enforcement initiatives–but always tempered with support for civil rights,” said Assistant Deputy Wardens/Deputy Wardens Association President Sidney Schwartzbaum. “Eric Adams has been a friend of labor and our union for years. He has fought for justice and equal opportunity, and against retaliation and intimidation.”