Two Queens lawmakers announce cross endorsements for each other in November election

Senator Jose Peralta and Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry announced yesterday that they will be cross endorsing their reelection campaigns ahead of the November 2018 elections.

The elected officials have overlapping coverage areas; Senator Peralta governs over New York State District 13, while Assemblyman Aubry covers Queens Assembly District 35. Both men have expressed mutual support and admiration for each other.

“Working together in Albany, I have seen firsthand his commitment and passion for issues that affect our community and New York as a whole,” Aubry said. “Having worked with him extensively, from bringing pre-K to Flushing Meadow Corona Park to fighting for increased affordable housing, I know him to be a true advocate for education, tenant protections, immigrants and his constituents. There is no question he will continue to bring this tremendous work ethic and dedication as he serves another term in the state Senate.”

In the past, Senator Peralta has worked to protect the rights of immigrant communities, with his involvement in organizations like the Astoria-based nonprofit Center for the Integration and Advancement of New Americans (CIANA). In the beginning of April, Senator Peralta secured a $40,000 state allocation for the organization, which went toward providing legal and other services for immigrants.

His work has been especially important in an era where DREAMers from several countries are constantly fighting for their rights to stay in the United States.

Senator Peralta shared similar sentiments about Aubry’s reelection campaign.

“Jeff has consistently advocated for a brighter and more equitable future for the 35th Assembly District and all of New York. Together we have worked to connect our shared communities to necessary resources and improve our schools, parks and businesses. I look forward to continued collaboration with the Assemblyman so we can have many more successes,” Peralta said.

Assemblyman Aubry served as the chair for the Committee on Correction, where he worked to reform drug laws and championed for those in prison with mental health issues. In 2009, Aubry supported legislation that reformed the Rockefeller Drug Laws, which subsequently allowed judges to give drug addicted offenders an option to receive treatment instead of serving prison time, according to his biography on the NY Assembly website.

Aubry has also fought for Queens residents’ rights to affordable housing and education by funding public schools and pushing for supportive housing to decrease homelessness in the borough.