When DFNYC did a round of endorsements in April, we did not include the Comptroller's race. There was just one candidate for the Democratic primary, Scott Stringer, and we generally only endorse in competitive races. Now that Eliot Spitzer has decided to run, DFNYC must decide whether to hold an endorsement vote. We're hearing a lot of interest in the race. Comptroller is a powerful position and also a stepping stone to higher office.
In recent newsletters, we asked for your opinion on whether we should hold an endorsement vote in the Comptroller's race, and many of you responded. Just to clarify, we are asking specifically whether DFNYC should hold a vote, not which candidate you are supporting, though we are happy to hear that as well. You can email your opinion to info-at-dfnyc.org. (Richard & Tracey)
Other races: We might also consider endorsing in other races, at the borough and council level. Check out our Hot Races page, and let us know if there's race we should post or get involved in: info@dfnyc.org
A few considerations for the Comptrollers Race:
a. Which Candidate? Naturally, many people's response to the question "Should DFNYC hold an endorsement vote?" is "Well, who would you endorse?" Putting aside whether it is fair to consider that factor, we can quite honestly say that we are not sure. DFNYC leadership has been hearing from members, and there are strong supporters of both Scott Stringer and Eliot Spitzer, as well as many undecideds.
b. Candidate Questionnaire: We will likely have one that is specific to this race (we'll get a draft up on our website for your comments), and we'll post the candidates' answers at our website. In our experience, it is far more likely that the candidates will respond if we are actually holding an endorsement vote.
c. Timing & Threshold for Endorsement - 60%?: We would want to do the endorsement after candidate questionnaires are submitted, but early enough to be relevant to the Sept. 10th primary. Also, in this cycle, we previously used a threshold of more than 50% in races with just two candidates. We are considering, given the strong feelings in this races, that 60% is probably a better threshold for an endorsement to be a true reflection of our members' support. Opinions? Send to info@dfnyc.org.
d. Nature of the Endorsement: One argument against endorsing is that we have other endorsed candidates to help. One argument in favor is that by having candidate questionnaires and a vote of our members, we can help direct the attention on this race back to the issues and the power of the Comptroller's office.
e. No Endorsement Vote Possible: The choices would likely be both candidates, and No Endorsement, so it is possible that DFNYC members would vote No Endorsement. If you have any suggestions or concerns about the ballot, who/what should be included, etc., let us know: info@dfnyc.org