Making A Choice for Change in Our Primary Elections

This year was a seemingly a parade of scandal in Albany from Carl Kruger earlier in the year to Vito Lopez just this past week. Whether it's financial corruption, or sexual harassment, it's clear that our state capitol is broken. In two days, however, Long Islanders will have the chance to choose candidates who are ready and willing to fix it. September 13th is Primary Day, and it's up to us to give these candidates our support so they can bring the progressive changes that our communities deserve. 

The Long Island Progressive Coalition, as a founding member of the Working Families Party, has a long history of endorsing candidates who put justice front and center in their campaigns. In this primary, Bridget Fleming and Michaelle Solanges have both shown they're willing to work for economic, social and racial justice on Long Island. After waiting far too long, it's time we have state representatives who stand up for working people, rather than bow to whoever has the deepest pockets.

Bridget Fleming is LIPC's endorsed candidate for the 1st State Senate District. As a Southampton Town Councilwoman, Bridget has a strong track record working to increase the transparency of the town's Finance Department. Recognizing the right to education for all of New York's young people, Bridget also supports improving access for immigrant students with programs like the DREAM Act. Finally, if elected, she would become the first woman to serve as a Long Island State Senator in nearly three decades. 

Michaelle Solanges is LIPC's endorsed candidate for the 22nd Assembly District. As a union member herself, Michaelle is committed to standing up for worker rights. From the right to organize in the workplace, to enacting a living wage, Michaelle has put the needs of workers at the front of her campaign.

Now it's up to progressive voters across Long Island to get out and make their voices heard. With both Bridget and Michaelle, we have the opportunity to put forward candidates who have what it takes to change the culture in Albany. By making these two women our Democratic candidates, and sending them to Albany in November, we will be able to give Albany the breath of fresh air that it's needed for too long.