With the former director of Cultural Affairs for Queens, a former staff member for Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, and three current or former Democratic district leaders among those vying for a seat on the City Council, this is a very competitive race. But all the contenders professed optimism about their prospects. When asked who is the candidate to beat, most named themselves. To try to win in this diverse district, the candidates are focusing on issues that cut across racial and ethnic boundaries. Most of the issues mentioned by the candidates, such as hospital administrator Moya's call for increased health services and programs for seniors, affect the community at large.
Economic development is another such concern.
The noise and traffic created at LaGuardia presents another problem that affects all kinds of people in the 21st district. It just isn't at the top of the list. He is the president of the Corona East Elmhurst Clergy Association and has served on the community school board. Mary France-Daniels is an activist and teacher. She has served on the New York State Regent's Committee on Low-Performing Schools and was formerly director of the Office of Parent Involvement.