Rockaway Candidates Rally Before Early Vote

The First Congregational Church at 320 Beach 94th Street filled with folding tables and chairs on October 22, as regional Democratic candidates prepared for the November 3 midterm election. The forum took place two days before early voting began on October 24, giving voters a final chance to hear from the officials seeking their support in the Rockaway Peninsula district.

Attorney General Letitia James and Congressman Gregory Meeks were absent from the event. However, a slate of local candidates and current officials took the stage to address the crowd. District Leader Jeanette Garramone for AD23-B opened the program, welcoming attendees to the church community room.

Judge Edwin Novillo, currently serving as an acting justice of the supreme court and supervising Queens County Criminal Court, began the speaker lineup. He stated that he had held these roles for approximately two years. Novillo explained that he is seeking election to the Supreme Court to advance to the appellate division. He told the audience that he promises fairness, impartiality, and respect for the community.

Edmond Wong, a candidate for Queens County Civil Court Judge, followed Novillo. Wong described Queens as the most diverse borough in the world, noting its wide range of ethnicities and nationalities. He argued that regardless of skin color, language, or cultural background, residents deserve equal treatment in the court system.

Jasmine Valle-Bueno, also running for civil court judge, addressed the group next. She acknowledged that her platform shared similarities with Wong’s but emphasized that they were not running against each other. Valle-Bueno stated that she has dedicated her life to public service and intends to continue that work on the bench. Gail Adams, a candidate for Supreme Court Justice, spoke last among the judicial hopefuls. Adams currently sits in Queens Family Court handling custody and family affairs cases. She expressed her passion for helping people with their day-to-day lives and family issues.

After the judicial candidates left, Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato took the stage. She announced that she had chosen not to seek reelection but would remain a resident of the peninsula. Amato expressed pride in her service and called it an honor of a lifetime. Pastor Joyce Dugger from the First Congregational Church then offered a benediction, urging the congregation to take a deep breath, release disconnections, and go vote with friends or neighbors.

District leaders from AD31-A and AD23-A also spoke. Valerie West emphasized the need for leaders to know their communities intimately. Frank Gulluscio urged voters to tell everyone they know to vote, citing his love for the October approach to the November election. Jonathan Lazo, District Leader for AD23-B, introduced State Assembly Candidate Pesach Osina, describing him as an honest and positive figure in the campaign.

Osina delivered remarks focused on accountability and community strength. He stated that residents of AD23 share common issues despite their differences. He encouraged the crowd to stay focused and participate in the election. Khaleel Anderson, the Assemblymember for AD-31, concluded the formal remarks. He spoke as both a current official and a surrogate for Attorney General James, highlighting her work on deed theft and ghost guns. Anderson said he partners with those most impacted by local issues to find solutions.

The event ended with candidates shaking hands and hugging supporters. Many voters held up campaign signs for photos, displaying enthusiasm for the upcoming vote.