Johanna Carmona speaks during a launch event for her campaign for New York State Assembly in January 2024 (Photo by Paul Frangipane)
May 6, 2024 By Czarinna Andres
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards has endorsed Johanna Carmona for the New York State Assembly, significantly boosting her campaign in the competitive race for the 37th Assembly District encompassing Long Island City, Sunnyside, Woodside, Maspeth, Blissville, Hunters Point, Middle Village and Ridgewood.
Richards’ endorsement is a key development in a race that is drawing considerable attention among local leaders and organizations. He praised Carmona’s deep community connections and her advocacy for the vulnerable. “Johanna Carmona represents the best of Queens and the future of our leadership,” Richards said. He highlighted her dedication to critical issues like affordable housing, public safety and climate action, which he noted are essential for effective governance in Albany.
Carmona expressed gratitude for the endorsement. “This endorsement energizes our campaign and affirms that we are on the right path,” she said. “With strong allies like Borough President Richards, we can achieve significant progress towards a brighter future for all our district’s residents.”
Her campaign has successfully gathered over 2,200 signatures to appear on the ballot and has raised more than $90,000 in campaign donations. As it heads into the crucial final weeks before the primary, her campaign is expected to gain further from state matching funds.
Carmona has received endorsements from several major labor unions such as the Mason Tenders, LiUNA, UFA, DC 9, UFT/NYSUT and IBEW Local 3, as well as numerous professional organizations and political groups like the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, the Civil Service Employees Association and the Queens County Democratic Party. High-profile supporters include Rep. Gregory Meeks, former Assemblymember Cathy Nolan and State Senator John Liu, among many others.
Carmona’s campaign has also received support from various community and political organizations, including the Ridgewood Democratic Club, the Stonewall Dems, the Himalayan Democratic Club and Eleanor’s Legacy, indicating broad backing across different communities and political spectra.
She faces competition from other candidates in the Democratic primary, including Democratic socialist and WFP-backed Claire Valdez and the incumbent Juan Ardila.
Early voting for the primary election begins on June 12, with the primary election day set for June 22.
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