NYC-CC02: Letitia James backs Harvey Epstein (D) in lower Manhattan council district
Attorney General Letitia James is wading into the competitive race to represent Council District 2 in lower Manhattan, throwing her considerable political weight behind Assembly Member Harvey Epstein as he seeks to replace term-limited Council Member Carlina Rivera.
“Harvey Epstein is a champion for protecting tenants and any vulnerable New Yorker,” James said in a statement. “He is a strong force for justice in Albany and I am confident he will be an outstanding City Council Member for the people of Lower Manhattan in fighting for a safer and affordable New York."
James’ endorsement, shared with City & State ahead of its Monday announcement, comes roughly five weeks out from the June 24 primary. The Council District 2 Democratic primary is among the most competitive races in the city – one that’s garnered all the more attention as Anthony Weiner, the disgraced former Congress member and two-time mayoral candidate, attempts a political comeback.
Five leading candidates are vying for the Council District 2 seat: Epstein, who has also snagged endorsements from the Working Families Party and a handful of the city’s largest labor unions; Weiner; Sarah Batchu, a former de Blasio administration staffer and nonprofit leader; Community Board 3 Chair Andrea Gordillo; and Allie Ryan, a community activist and documentary film producer.
https://www.cityandstateny.com/politics/2025/05/letitia-james-backs-harvey-epstein-lower-manhattan-council-district/405407/?oref=csny-category-lander-featured-river