New Kings Democrats dove into the 2017 election season on April 19, voting at our General Meeting to endorse Carlos Menchaca for City Council District 34 and Antonio Reynoso for District 38. Both candidates gave speeches and answered questions from the nearly full pews at First Unitarian Church in Brooklyn Heights, then members voted and both candidates passed the two-thirds majority threshold needed to win NKD’s endorsement.

Before the speeches and votes, Matt Stern, VP of Political Affairs, joined President Anusha Venkataraman to explain NKD’s endorsement process, which will continue with more candidate appearances and votes at future monthly meetings. NKD looks to support viable candidates that represent Brooklyn and align with our platform, focusing on races where our impact is likely to be greatest. With our growing and diverse membership across Brooklyn we expect to make more endorsements this year than ever before.

Councilman Antonio Reynoso making his case to get our endorsement for reelection in #CD34

In addition to the endorsements, members also voted to pass a new Criminal Justice Reform Platform, long under development in our Policy Committee. Policy VP Brandon West presented the platform and led a Q&A before the vote. 

Talking Criminal Justice Reform in a righteous place!

NKD Treasurer Essence Franklin updated us on plans for coming events and fundraisers, in particular our annual True Blue gala, and made a pitch for volunteers to help with event planning and fundraising (sign up here!). 

VP of Organizing Yaneth Lombana gave an update on the Organizing Committee’s plans to train door-knockers for upcoming elections, and invited more members to join the committee and broaden NKD’s reach throughout Brooklyn.

Thanks to all the members who participated in this exciting start to the 2017 election season. Stay tuned for the next General Meeting, on May 22nd!