New York City council member, Vanessa Gibson, announced her endorsement of Andrew Yang for mayor of New York City, while he endorsed the councilwoman for the position of Bronx borough president at a joint-campaign rally on the steps of Bronx Borough Hall on Saturday, May 8. Also present at the event was Congressman Ritchie Torres, representing the 15th congressional district in the Bronx, who has previously endorsed Gibson, and is co-chair of the “Yang for NY” campaign.

 

“Andrew Yang has the bold and creative ideas we need to get our City back on track and ensure that the Bronx is not left behind in the City’s economic recovery,” said Gibson, who represents City Council District 16. “He is not beholden to anyone but New Yorkers, and has proven he is willing to do what is necessary to rebuild our city. I am deeply inspired by his vision for our City and this borough, and through a strong partnership, together we will uplift Bronx working families and essential workers who have gotten us through this pandemic.”

 

Meanwhile, Yang commended what he described as Gibson’s passion for improving the lives of New Yorkers. “Her work as chair of the [City] Council public safety committee, advocacy for a tenant’s right to counsel, and deep love of The Bronx are unparalleled,” he said. “I’m so proud to be partnering with Vanessa as our coalition of next generation leaders continues to grow stronger everyday. She is exactly what The Bronx needs in its next Borough president and I cannot wait to work with her in City Hall to bring cash relief to New Yorkers, create a People’s Bank, and so much more.”

 

Torres said Yang and Gibson were two political leaders who understand that it was going to take audacious thinking and serious policy proposals to help bring back the City from the depths of the pandemic. “They’re a dynamic duo who will work together to ensure that City Hall addresses the needs of Bronx residents, many of whom are essential workers who kept the City running in order for New Yorkers to quarantine at home,” he said. “I am proud to endorse Vanessa Gibson for Bronx borough president and to be the co-chair of Andrew Yang’s Mayoral campaign.”

Raised in Morris Heights, Gibson has represented The Bronx’s 16th Council District since 2014.