Letter from Crown Heights leaders released to COLlive.com:
We are proud to endorse Assemblymember Brian Cunningham for reelection. He has been a real and consistent supporter of the Jewish community, showing up in good times and in difficult moments.
It has come to our attention that the Democratic Socialists of America are considering running a candidate against him, claiming he does not represent their interests. This Shabbos, they plan to campaign in Crown Heights with messaging that he sides with “the rich and powerful.”
We are also aware that a member of Anash is considering entering this race. After speaking with the Frum elected officials in Albany and Jewish leaders across both mainstream and Orthodox Jewish organizations, the message is clear: Brian Cunningham is a trusted ally, a proven advocate, and someone who has earned broad respect.
Running against Brian Cunningham now—when outside groups are actively trying to unseat one of the few reliable allies we have—is a serious mistake. It weakens our position, damages important relationships, and sends the wrong message. Frankly, it is a chilul Hashem.
The individual considering a run says he is doing so over two main issues. The first is the development of Kingsbrook properties. That argument is misguided. This is not a uniquely Jewish issue, but a broader community-wide issue. More importantly, the development process predates Brian Cunningham’s time in office and is beyond his control. There is simply nothing he can do to stop it.
The second issue is the Kingsbrook shul. The irony is that Brian Cunningham called the hospital, contacted the Governor, reached out to many others in support of the shul, and has spoken out publicly on its behalf. The claim, therefore, is not only unfair—it is false. By contrast, the individual considering this race has done nothing to support the shul.
We know Brian Cunningham. He shows up, he listens, and he delivers. That is why we stand with him.
Rabbi Lazer Avtzon
Rabbi Yaacov Behrman
Shaya Gordon
Devorah Halberstam
Rabbi Shea Hecht
Rabbi Shlomie Hecht
Rabbi Mendy Hershkop
Avi Leches
Menachem Light
Rabbi Berel Majesky
Rabbi Chanina Sperlin
We have one of unzere running against him so why vote for him? He ignored hundreds of phone calls about the shelter
Good. I am actually thinking of donating to Brian Cunningham campaign. Because he needs to stay in office. I spoke to the Lubavitcher who is running against him. And I was very disappointed with his answers to my questions on the issues.I will vote for Cunningham.
Brian needs to do more to help prevent the additional massive developments coming to
South of CH. Or at least have it modified to help the community concerns. This is a massive threat to the local residents and beyond.
I understand the thought process, but doesn’t it seem like that’s the same thought process that has prevented us from adding yiddin and REAL allies in the first place? אין כמו עם ישראל
Not trying to go against any side, I’m genuinely looking for perspective here, and I welcome all discussion happily!
He is a kind and approachable man, though ultimately he identifies as a progressive and aligns his views and actions with those policies, hence his support for initiatives such as the expansion of bike lanes, the development of homeless shelters, and similar efforts.