Working Families Party Endorsees Falk for 40th Senate Seat
In a potential primary for the chance to represent the Democratic Party in the 40th New York State Senate race, one endorsement has already been announced.
The Working Families Party announced that Patterson resident Andrew Falk is its candidate of choice in the 40th senate district. While it’s not shocking a Democrat got the party’s blessing, the decision could carry weight as Falk and Debbie Carter Costello, a Cortlandt councilwoman, are both vying for the chance to face Republican incumbent Terrence Murphy in the general election. Even if Falk loses the Democratic primary, he would appear on at least one line during the general election, making it harder for Carter Costello to overtake Murphy.
Calling Falk a “forward-thinking leader,” WFP Westchester-Putnam Chairman Pat Walsh said Falk has the “courage to challenge the status-quo” for everyday people.
“Since his first run for office in 2012, Andrew has consistently and tirelessly stood up for working families — fighting to raise the minimum wage, for pay equity for women, and to protect our environment,” Walsh said in a statement. “Andrew has never backed down when it comes to fighting for what he believes in.”
WFP Political Director Ari Kamen said Falk was a “tireless voice for working families in the region.
“The grassroots support he has in his senate campaign did not happen overnight — for years Andy has been fighting for the progressive values we in the Working Families Party champion every day,” Kamen said. “When Andy wins the race and heads up to Albany, we will all have a voice for change working with us and for us.”
Falk in a statement said he was honored to garner the support of the WFP.
“Not only do they represent a progressive and labor oriented constituency that I agree with, the ballot line is also a vital component to winning the 40th Senate District,” Falk said. “Middle and working class families are the backbone of the Hudson Valley and today they face tremendous challenges. Only by working together can we make progress on creating jobs, giving our children every opportunity for success, and providing the Hudson Valley a real voice for ethical and honest government in Albany.”
Falk was also recently endorsed by the Communication Workers of America and Local 1103.
Despite not getting the WFP’s backing, Carter Costello noted her strong support for labor unions and stressed she shares the values important to hard working families.
“I am proud to be endorsed by AFSME Local 2343, who recognize that I am the only candidate who can win back the 40th District Senate seat in November after over 100 years of Republican rule. I look forward to speaking with each WFP affiliate individually and working to win their support,” Carter Costello stated. “Most importantly I am excited to meet Democratic voters all across our district in the next six months to talk about ways in which we can improve our communities by working together.”
