Jackson Heights has been the front lines in the fight between the Queens Democratic Party and ethnic-driven insurgent candidates. So when it comes time to campaign, there’s a mix of styles, which made this latest campaign filing between state Senator John Sabini and his challenger, Councilman Hiram Monserrate, so interesting.
Sabini, along with Councilwoman Helen Sears and Rep. Joseph Crowley represent growing immigrant communities in that part of Queens. For the last few years, several candidates have emerged from those communities to run for office, with a little help from Monserrate. Now, it’s his turn.
The campaign filings show an interesting, if not counter-intuitive trend.
Sabini spent $3,300 on a sound truck and banner and Monserrate spent $10,000 printing campaign literature.
Go figure.
— Azi Paybarah
