In a heartfelt letter addressed to Mr. Latimer, a concerned constituent has expressed deep reservations about his potential run for Congress in District 16 (DC16), urging him to seek another political path to avoid potential division among progressives.
The letter, written by a long-time supporter of Mr. Latimer and an advocate for progressive ideals, highlights the concern that challenging incumbent Representative Jamal Bowman could be detrimental to the progressive cause. The author acknowledges Mr. Latimer’s expertise and suggests that he could serve effectively at the State level, assisting Governor Hochul, rather than taking on Representative Bowman.
The writer expresses the fear that such a challenge may tarnish Mr. Latimer’s reputation as an advocate for racial justice and erode the respect and affection he has garnered over the years through various campaigns. The author notes their past support for Mr. Latimer but regrets that it may have to end if he proceeds with the Congressional bid.
In the letter, the author underscores the need for unity among progressives during a challenging moment for the country. Representative Bowman is hailed as a strong, courageous, and effective voice for progressive ideals during his two terms in office. The writer believes that challenging Mr. Bowman risks splitting the progressive vote in the upcoming primary, potentially allowing a centrist or conservative Democrat to secure victory.
The constituent passionately implores Mr. Latimer to resist the lure of big money and special interests that may seek to undermine Representative Bowman and promote a right-wing agenda. They emphasize the importance of continuing to be a valuable voice for progressive values rather than engaging in what they consider to be a misguided and unsuccessful run for Congress in District 16.
In closing, the author reiterates their commitment to supporting Representative Bowman and encourages Mr. Latimer to reconsider his decision to run for Congress in DC16. The letter underscores the delicate balance of unity and progressivism that many constituents believe is essential in the current political landscape.
As Mr. Latimer contemplates his political future, this heartfelt letter serves as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with running for public office, especially when it involves competing within the same political camp.
Dear Mr. Latimer
It is with great concern that I have read about your consideration of a run for Congress in DC16. I strongly urge you to seek another office after your tenure as County Executive. With your expertise, you could easily assist Governor Hochul at the State level without challenging Representative Jamal Bowman. That is a horrible situation and one that many many many people in his district will oppose.
Your reputation as an advocate for racial justice will be severely tarnished. The respect that you worked for and the affection that you benefited from during many campaigns over the years will be squandered. I will never forget it. I have worked hard for your election, and it will be with regret.
We need to stand together in unity at this challenging moment for our country. Representative Bowman has been a strong, courageous, and effective voice for progressive ideals during his two terms in office. I believe it would be a callous decision to challenge Mr. Bowman and threaten to split the progressive vote and allow a centrist or conservative Democrat to win the upcoming primary. There is considerable support for Congressman Bowman in the district, and we would work urgently to ensure his reelection next November.
Please do not fall prey to big money and special interests that would like to see Mr. Bowman defeated in an effort to further a right-wing agenda.
Please continue your work as a valuable voice for progressive values. I believe a run against Bowman would be a misguided and unsuccessful run for Congress in District 16. I would work for Representative Bowman.
Sincerely,
By Sandy Bernabei
The Anti-Racist Alliance
Sandy Bernabei
Ceil Lavan
Mona Swanson
Katie Scully
Latifa Williams
