In a major announcement on Tuesday, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio endorsed state Senators Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) and Tony Avella (D-Queens).
“Throughout this past session, Sen. Jeff Klein and Sen. Tony Avella worked tirelessly on behalf of the residents of New York City and helped make progress on issues that had been stalled for far too long,” Mayor de Blasio said.
“With their leadership, we secured a record increase in funding for universal Pre-K, a fair budget for New York City, needed property tax relief for victims of Hurricane Sandy, and the changes we need to save lives and improve street safety.
“As part of a united Democratic majority in the State Senate, I look forward to working with Sen. Klein and Sen. Avella as we work to implement a progressive agenda, including increasing the minimum wage, expanding affordable housing, ensuring women’s equality, passing the DREAM Act and much more. I am proud to endorse Sen. Klein and Sen. Avella for re-election,” Mayor de Blasio added.
Both Independent Democratic Conference members looked forward to working with Mayor de Blasio and advancing important progressive legislation next session.
“As Co-leader of the State Senate, I partnered with Mayor de Blasio to deliver $300 million for full day Universal Pre-K, brought home 120 additional speed cameras for school zones and passed life-saving legislation to reduce the City's speed limit, a crucial piece of his Vision Zero plan. We both agree that there's still more work to be done including, passing the DREAM Act, protecting a woman's right to choose and enacting real, meaningful campaign finance reform. I'm honored to receive his endorsement and look forward to achieving more Democratic victories for all New Yorkers," said state Senator Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester).
