.
March 18, 2021 By Christian Murray
Nearly 20 candidates have come forward to run in the Democratic primary for the 26th District Council seat currently held by Jimmy Van Bramer.
The primary is scheduled for June 22 and today we speak to Sultan Maruf, who is vying for the seat that covers Sunnyside, Woodside, Long Island City and a portion of Astoria.
Maruf, an immigrant from Bangladesh, is a resident of the Dutch Kills section of Long Island City.
He pledges to donate half his salary to charity if elected, advocate for free MTA service and work to reduce homelessness. In addition, he calls for free legal assistance for low-income New Yorkers.
Maruf said that he opposed the Amazon deal two years ago, arguing that it would have led to gentrification. He also believes that community board members should be elected, as opposed to being appointed by the local council member and borough president.
For more information on Maruf, click on his campaign website at sultanmaruf.com.
For a list of candidates in the race, click here. Van Bramer is unable to seek re-election due to term limits. He is currently running for Queens Borough President.
*Listen to Queens Post podcasts on SoundCloud or view on YouTube.
