Bay Ridge

Cuomo endorses Gentile for congress

April 30, 2015 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Vincent Gentile is getting some last minute support from Governor Andrew Cuomo. Eagle file photo by Paula Katinas
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Democrat Vincent Gentile is getting a last-minute boost in his congressional campaign from Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Cuomo, who had previously stated that he would not make any endorsements in the race to succeed former congressman Michael Grimm, apparently changed his mind and has endorsed his fellow Democrat Gentile on Thursday.

“Vinnie Gentile has fought for the hardworking people of New York his entire career. He is a steadfast advocate for first responders and he is committed to growing our economy by cutting taxes, creating jobs and supporting small businesses,” Cuomo said in a statement.

Gentile is running against Republican Daniel Donovan and Green Party candidate James Lane in the special election on May 5 to succeed Grimm, a Republican who resigned from office on Jan. 5 after pleading guilty to tax fraud.

Gentile is facing an uphill battle for the seat in the 11th Congressional District (Staten Island-Southwest Brooklyn), a district that is dominated by Staten Island because the vast majority of the voters live there. Donovan, the Staten Island district attorney, is a well known figure in that borough.

Cuomo’s endorsement comes with less than a week to go before the May 5 special election.

“I endorse Vinnie for Congress because the people of the 11th District deserve a fighter who will always put people first,” Cuomo said.

Cuomo had stated last week that he would not be making an endorsement in the race. The New York Observer reported that Cuomo told reporters last week that he normally prefers to leave “local races to the localities.”

Whatever the reason for the governor’s turnaround, Gentile is grateful for the endorsement.

“I am proud to have the support of Governor Cuomo, who is a national leader on issues like gun control, job creation, and making government work for all,” Gentile said. “Through his leadership, New York has come back from the economic downturn to be more fiscally sound than ever. The governor and I share a vision for a New York where every person has the same opportunities to succeed.”

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