Former NY Gov. David Paterson Endorses Alfonso Quiroz for Council

New York City Council candidate Alfonso Quiroz has earned the endorsement of former New York Governor David Paterson, who praised Quiroz’s passion for public service and his commitment to community.

Paterson served as the state’s top executive from March 2008 to the end of 2010.

“I have come to know Alfonso Quiroz over the last 15 years and truly believe he will be a stellar public servant because he cares about his community and his city,” said Governor David Paterson. "Alfonso is driven by both his heart and his head in his continuous pursuit of solutions to improve the lives of others and ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Quiroz said he was honored by the endorsement because Paterson was an early supporter of marriage equality measures in New York and paved the way for state legislation legalizing same-sex marriage. Moreover, his agenda as Governor focused on expanding economic, health-care, educational, and housing opportunities for everyone and took strides to end discrimination on all fronts. These goals are more important than ever as New York City and State try to emerge from the pandemic, he said.

"It is a great honor to have the endorsement of Governor Paterson, who served our State with integrity and dignity," said Alfonso Quiroz. "Countless New Yorkers gained access to new opportunities and lead better lives due to his leadership. Over his decades-long career, Governor Paterson was a fierce advocate for the people and I hope to continue his legacy in the City Council for my neighbors and community.”

Quiroz is a long-time New Yorker who lives in Jackson Heights with his husband, Jeff Simmons.
He has a long record of civic involvement. He is a former president of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Queens. He currently serves as vice president of the JFK Democratic Club and is a former board member of Queens Theater, the Stonewall Democratic Club and active in the Jackson Heights Beautification Group.

As the founder of the 37th Avenue Sidewalk Cafe Coalition, he was an instrumental and early voice in the expansion of outdoor dining in Jackson Heights.
Quiroz has served as deputy chief of staff to former Councilmember Helen Sears and as Democratic district leader in Queens. He was a White House intern when President Clinton was in office and served as a field organizer for Al Gore's 2000 campaign.

You can learn more about the candidate's stances on issues here.