By Mark Hallum
Jessica Ramos, who continues to collect endorsements from well-known lawmakers and organizations, recently gained the support of U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-Astoria).
Ramos, who is running against state Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst), won the endorsement for her outspoken advocacy for codifying Roe vs. Wade in New York state and highlighting the funds owed to public schools through Foundation Aid.
“As Trump packs the Supreme Court with radical conservatives, we need progressive leaders in Albany now more than ever to protect labor, LGBTQ, and reproductive rights,” Maloney said. “Jessica Ramos is a public school parent, a pro-choice champion, and a strong labor advocate—and she will fight tirelessly for working families in Albany. I know Jessica will stay true to her progressive values and that she will never turn her back on the Democratic Party. That is why I’m proud to endorse Jessica Ramos for state Senate.”
The congresswoman has backed Peralta in the past, such as in his 2010 initial for election, but switched gears after he defected to the Independent Democratic Conference, a breakaway group which negotiated with Republicans in an attempt to pass progressive legislation. Ramos has fervently criticized his decision to leave the mainstream party.
“As a leader on women’s issues and advocate for Dreamers, Congresswoman Maloney knows that the people of NY-13 need someone who will fight for them in Albany, not someone who will empower Republicans—and I’m thrilled to have her support,” Ramos said. “For years, Jose Peralta empowered Republicans in the state Senate and helped block progressive legislation like the Dream Act and Reproductive Health Act. I’m going to Albany to fix our subways, protect affordable housing, and fully fund our public schools—and I look forward to partnering with Congresswoman Maloney to fight for working families across this city.”
Maloney beat back a primary opponent in Suraj Patel in the June 26 congressional Democratic primary.
Ramos recently also gained the support of Make the Road NY, an organization that works to empower immigrants.
Reach reporter Mark Hallum by e-mail at mhall
