Vanguard Independent Democrats Endorse Tish James for Public Advocate

Historic club calls James the “voice of our communities” and the “progressive choice for Public Advocate”

May 1, 2013 (New York, NY) – Today, Councilwoman Letitia “Tish” James’ campaign announced that James has been endorsed by the Vanguard Independent Democratic Association (VIDA) in her campaign for New York City Public Advocate.

“Our club is built upon ensuring that communities in Brooklyn and around New York have great representation in government. That’s why we’re proud to endorse Tish James for Public Advocate,” said Vanguard Independent Democratic Association (VIDA) President Robert Cornegy, Jr. “Tish has been the voice of our communities and working men and women across the City. She has brought funding to our neighborhoods, stood up to powerful interests on behalf of middle-class and working-class people, and protected tenants by passing the Safe Housing Act. She’s the progressive choice for Public Advocate and we look forward to working hard to get her elected.”

Vida is celebrating its 40^th year as an important force in Brooklyn politics. The club is active in elections up and down the ballot.

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of VIDA, a historically important club in Brooklyn whose members have made a real difference in bringing New Yorkers into the democratic process,” said Councilwoman Tish James. “Our campaign continues to pick up support and momentum because New Yorkers want a Public Advocate who will fight for everyday people in every borough, ensure that working men and women in our city are treated with respect, and that government works for all, not just the wealthy and the well-connected.”

Last week, Tish James was endorsed by the Uniformed Sanitationmen’s Association, Local 831. Additionally, James has now been endorsed by SEIU 32BJ, CWA 1180, UAW, DC 1707, and Local 802. James has also been endorsed by numerous elected officials including fellow Councilmembers Maria del Carmen Arroyo, Melissa Mark-Viverito, and Sara Gonzalez. Last week, Democracy for New York City (DFNYC), a group dedicated to advancing progressive causes in New York, also endorsed Tish James for Public Advocate.

About Tish James: A Brooklyn native, Tish James has been a long-time public servant. Prior to being elected City Councilwoman in 2003, James was a top-level aide to members of the State Assembly, where she played a crucial role in bringing resources to some of New York’s most vulnerable communities. In the City Council, James has been an outspoken advocate for economic and social justice.