HTC Backs Laurie Cumbo for Tish James’ Seat

A crowded field of candidates are vying to replace Councilwoman Tish James, each hoping to leverage every electoral advantage for

(Photo: Facebook)
(Photo: Facebook)

A crowded field of candidates are vying to replace Councilwoman Tish James, each hoping to leverage every electoral advantage for her Fort Greene-based seat. Accordingly, one contender, Laurie Cumbo, the former head of the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts, rolled out the support of the small-but-powerful Hotel Trades Council earlier today.

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“We are thrilled to announce our support for Laurie Cumbo today,” Josh Gold, the union’s political director, said in a statement. “Laurie knows first hand the struggles of New York’s working families, and we cannot think of a more qualified representative of the 35th. Our 32,000 members are ready to start work on her campaign and I am looking forward to working with her in the City Council.”

Ms. Cumbo is the latest in a small string of endorsements from the hotel worker’s union as it seeks to leverage its organizing muscle into a City Council and mayoralty favorable to its interests.

Other candidates for Ms. James’ seat include District Leader Jesse Hamilton, former District Leader Ola AlabiEde Fox, a former chief of staff for Councilman Jumaane Williams, and Jelani Mashariki, the founder of Black Veterans for Social Justice. For her part, Ms. Alabi was endorsed by the Correction Officers Benevolent Association and the Heat & Frost Insulators of Local 12.

Ms. James is vacating her seat to run citywide for public advocate.

Update (11:53 a.m.): Added additional information about Ms. Alabi’s support.

HTC Backs Laurie Cumbo for Tish James’ Seat