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Manhattan Council Endorsements

The New York Times, August 21, 2005

If there is a land of opportunity for aspiring politicians, it should be New York City, where a progressive public financing program and term limits combine to make it relatively easy for industrious hopefuls to become serious contenders. This year, more than 250 City Council candidates are vying for election - mainly in the Sept. 13 primaries, which are the contests that count in most districts. Here are our recommendations in the most hotly contested City Council district races in Manhattan....

Eighth District (East Harlem, Upper West Side, and the South Bronx): The predominantly Hispanic community of East Harlem, which makes up 60 percent of the district, suffers with some of the worst air pollution in the city and epidemic asthma rates due in large part to bus terminals located there. Districtwide, lower-income families continue to be pushed out by rising housing costs.

The outgoing councilman, Philip Reed, has endorsed Joyce Johnson, a former Seagram's executive who helps run a charter school in the Bronx. Ms. Johnson is a strong candidate, made stronger by the presence of several Latinos who threaten to split the Hispanic vote. Among them, one, Melissa Mark-Viverito, has demonstrable ties throughout the district. An organizer for 1199/S.E.I.U., Ms. Mark-Viverito holds degrees from Columbia University and Baruch College. She proved she can be independent two years ago, when she defied her union to run unsuccessfully against Mr. Reed. Ms. Mark-Viverito has a reformist's heart, an activist's spirit and a keen intellect. Her campaign has been lively and districtwide, and she promises to be a force for all her constituents. For those reasons, we endorse Melissa Mark-Viverito.