The paper of record here in Manhattan came out this morning with their endorsements for the upcoming primary on September 9th. The editors that wrote this are looking for change in Albany as much as people across the country want it in the White House. At least here in the city, they have a few picks as to who should stay and who should replace the inhibitors of change up in our state capitol. One of the picks is not Shelly Silver.
It's Paul Newell:
The most important of these races is in Lower Manhattan, where Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, one of the most powerful people in the state, is facing his first real challenge in decades. It is still an uphill fight for any opponent, but the race has already made one difference. It has brought the ever-secretive Mr. Silver out to meet voters and campaign for his job.
Of the two challengers, Paul Newell, a community activist with deep roots in the Lower East Side, has the stronger credentials. Luke Henry, an attorney who moved into the district more recently, is working hard. Mr. Newell has done a better job of identifying Mr. Silver’s weaknesses: mainly, his devotion to closed-door politics, including his refusal to disclose details about his outside income. Mr. Newell is also pledging to support congestion pricing and to press for a nonpartisan redistricting commission, which is essential for real change. In the 64th Assembly District, we endorse Paul Newell.
Now since I wasn't in the editorial board meeting when and if all three candidates sat down for discussions I don't know the entirety of their criteria. I am for change, so that automatically rules out Sheldon Silver, but between the challengers I have been torn. Both want to reform Albany, both care about their community and not the developers that want to demolish it and both would make excellent Assemblymen.
Of course the Times' endorsement carries more weight than mine, but I am still holding off for the moment. September 9th is still a couple weeks away. Though as long as change in Albany is what wins, then I'll be satisfied.
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