Party Enrolled In: Democratic
Current Occupation: City Council Member, District 22; Chair, Public Safety Committee
Previous Occupation(s): Prosecutor, Manhattan District Attorney's Office; Partner, Vallone & Vallone
Education: Graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Fordham College and Fordham Law School
Organizational Affiliations: CHOKE; Tamiment Democratic Club; Astoria Civic Association; Sharing & Caring
Prior Public Experience: New York City Council Member since 2001
1. What is the most important issue in Queens you would address if elected?
As people in many communities will tell you, crime is back on the rise. Keeping our streets safe is not only vital to protect ourselves and our families; it is also the key to promoting our economy and all other aspects of our quality of life. As Chair of the Public Safety Committee in the City Council, I worked closely with NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly to drive crime down by 35% and to take on terrorists, sex offenders and graffiti vandals. As Borough President, I vow to continue fighting to make Queens the safest borough in the safest city in the country.
2. What other important issues would you address if elected?
Right now, our small businesses and homeowners are under attack by the city government. Our stores and restaurants are fined for no reason. Our property taxes and water rates continue to climb. In the City Council, I have passed laws to help our small businesses and have been one of the few members to vote against property taxes. As Borough President, I will continue to protect the homes and businesses that are the lifeblood of Queens.
3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
I am the only Democratic candidate who has actual experience both keeping people safe and running a small business. I started my career as a prosecutor and later ran my family's small law firm for 10 years. Government service is noble, but we need leaders with the outside experience and perspective to truly protect what matters to Queens middle class families. Queens voters can trust me because I have been there and understand what's truly important to them.
Reprinted as supplied by the candidate. Participating in the NYC Campaign Finance Program.
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