First, in a long-anticipated move, the Queens Democratic Party gave their party to Schumer aide Phil Goldfeder in the 23rd AD and to Michael Simanowitz in the 27th.

Now comes word that the Working Families Party has given their line to Jesus Gonzalez in the 54th Assembly district to replace Darryl Towns.

This comes as not a surprise since many WFP and progressive luminaries attended Gonzalez' campaign kickoff last month. Still, Gonzalez faces an uphill battle in a race that will also include Towns' sister, Deidra Towns, and Rafael Espinal, who will have the nod of the local Democratic Party.

Still, the WFP has a pretty good track record at winning local races. Says deputy director Bill Lipton:

"Jesus Gonzalez grew up in East Brooklyn getting to know his neighbors from an early age while selling Italian Ice and Avon products door-to-door with his parents. Those door-knocking skills stayed with him later in life when he became a community organizer, and those are the same skills he’ll bring with him during this campaign to win this Assembly seat. Jesus Gonzalez has an ability unmatched by his opponents to connect with his neighbors and understand their challenges and their hopes.

 

“The Working Families Party is proud to stand by Jesus Gonzalez in this campaign, because he’s stood by East Brooklyn his entire life.  Whether it’s working on affordable housing, better schools, or good jobs for community residents, Jesus has taken pragmatic steps to improve his neighborhood in meaningful ways.  That’s why a broad cross-section of community groups and organized workers are supporting Jesus Gonzalez. Where some candidates are all talk, Jesus Gonzalez is all organizing.

 

“The WFP will work enthusiastically from now through election day to get the Gonzalez message out to voters in the 54^th District. We have a proven track record of turning out voters in special elections, and we’re confident this race will be won where Jesus is most comfortable – at the doors.”