Gus Lambropoulos, candidate for NYS Senate District 59 (Photo provided by the campaign)
June 18, 2024 By Czarinna Andres
Democratic candidate Gus Lambropoulos announced his candidacy for New York State Senator for District 59 in January, emphasizing his roots in a hardworking immigrant family and his commitment to fostering a thriving New York.
The son of Greek immigrants, Lambropoulos’s campaign resonates with his deep connections to the communities of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan, which the district covers.
Born and raised in Astoria, Lambropoulos says he is a testament to the American Dream. His parents arrived in the U.S. with just a few dollars, striving through minimum-wage jobs to provide for their family. “Their perseverance instilled a strong set of values centered on hard work, sacrifice and ingenuity,” said Lambropoulos, who went through New York’s public schools and later Adelphi University and Baruch College, where he earned an MBA and a BBA, respectively.
Lambropoulos and his wife, Maria Markou, a fellow Astoria native, are raising their three young children in the same neighborhood that shaped his early life. Lambropolous says his personal history fortifies his platform, which promises responsible policies to address critical issues like affordability, public safety, and education.
Lambropoulos is running against the incumbent, Kristen Gonzalez, who has held the seat since 2023 and is known for her advocacy on internet accessibility and social justice.
The candidate spoke to the Queens Post about how he is looking to prioritize new solutions to the housing crisis to ensure that all residents can afford to live in a city that grows with them. His economic strategy focuses on supporting small businesses and spurring job creation locally.
Lambropoulos says education is also a cornerstone of his campaign. He pledges to combat the challenges facing New York’s public schools and secure necessary funding for CUNY and SUNY, advocating for legislation to freeze tuition costs and increase college affordability.
On public safety, Lambropoulos opposes radical moves to defund the police. Instead, he supports community policing initiatives to safeguard neighborhoods while fostering a cooperative relationship between the community and law enforcement.
“Albany needs more problem solvers,” Lambropoulos stated. “I am committed to being a State Senator who stands firmly with the residents of District 59, pushing for effective and efficient solutions that will ensure our city is full of promise and opportunity for future generations.”
Lambropoulos and Gonzalez are expected to participate in a candidate forum hosted by The Astoria Homeowners, Tenants & Business Civic Association (AHTBCA) on Wednesday, June 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the Pistilli Grand Manor located at 45-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria.
Early voting began on June 15 and will run until June 23. Election day is on June 25. Find your polling location here.
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