A community education advocate has stepped forward as a contender to replace outgoing Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in New York’s 36th District. The candidate, who has worked closely with local youth and education programs, emphasized during a recent Socialist Democrats USA event that education remains central to her platform.
“Education is actually an equalizer. It’s one way that people can change their economic status, and it should be available to everyone who wants to change their future and meet their potential,” she said.
The campaign is expected to take shape ahead of the Democratic primary in June, as she continues meeting with tenant groups, teachers, and neighborhood organizations to build early support. The district, located in western Queens, has long been a politically active and diverse area shaped by progressive advocacy.
Mamdani, first elected in 2020, became one of the Assembly’s most prominent progressive voices, championing tenant protections, transit investment, and higher taxes on the wealthy. His decision not to seek re-election has opened a competitive field that analysts say will influence the future direction of left-leaning politics in Astoria.
“Astoria voters want bold leadership, especially on housing and education,” said Samuel Ortega, a political analyst at Queens College.
Community members echo these priorities, with retired teacher Nora Petropoulos noting, “We need someone who understands the struggles of working families.”
