In a lively atmosphere at Mary O’s bar on Avenue A, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein addressed his supporters as election results poured in from the Democratic primary for the Second District City Council race.
With approximately 85 percent of the votes tallied, Epstein claimed a significant lead with nearly 40 percent of the vote, distancing himself from his competitors.
Celebrations erupted as supporters chanted his name, ‘Harvey, Harvey, Harvey,’ which highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding his campaign.
Although Epstein emphasized that final counts, particularly ranked votes, might take a week to finalize, he expressed confidence in his current standings.
He highlighted that he had secured over 10,000 votes, accounting for around 39 percent, while his closest opponents, Sarah Batchu and Andrea Gordillo, each garnered just over 5,500 votes, or about 21 percent.
Anthony Weiner and Allie Ryan followed with approximately 10 percent and just under 8 percent, respectively.
Epstein, who has been representing the East Side of Manhattan in the Assembly since 2018, reflected on his deep ties to the community.
“I have raised my children here; this is my community,” he noted, expressing gratitude for the privilege to have served the neighborhood in the Assembly.
Dressed casually in an orange shirt and khaki shorts, Epstein reiterated the significance of his campaign, acknowledging the hard work put in by his team.
He stated, “Thank you all for all the work you’ve done. It’s been a crazy day. Your energy and commitment have brought us to where we are today.”
As the field manager and having worked in campaigns since she was 14, Amara Ostroff resonated deeply with Epstein’s message.
“I love the Lower East Side, the East Village,” she shared, having started her day at 5 a.m. to support the campaign.
Expressing her admiration for Epstein, she remarked, “He knows the people in this community,” emphasizing his accountability and connection with local residents.
The celebration continued throughout the bar, filled with campaign memorabilia and the atmosphere of victory.
East Village resident John Ellis praised Epstein’s approachable nature, reflecting on how his community ties precede his political aspirations.
“We’re his neighbors. We got to know him before politics were involved,” Ellis stated.
Local residents expressed their trust in Epstein’s stance on a range of issues, particularly immigration and housing rights.
Mable Tso articulated the community’s support, noting Epstein’s efforts in advocating for housing rights and his recent legislative victory aimed at reducing rent burdens in Mitchell-Lama housing in Manhattan.
“He stands up for immigrant rights, housing rights, and racial justice,” Tso affirmed.
Tributes to Epstein’s character were abundant, as individuals resonated with his listener-centric approach and his commitments to legislative action benefiting local residents.
His son, Joshua, shared insights from his conversations with constituents, reflecting on how well Epstein is perceived within the community.
“Our community knows him well,” Joshua stated, emphasizing the positive recognition his father receives from voters.
Leila, Epstein’s daughter, also discussed the recent time they spent together, particularly during his stays in Albany.
“I spent the last six months every week with him; I do a lot with him,” Leila said, illustrating their close relationship and her involvement in his endeavors.
Barbara Epstein, Harvey’s mother, reminisced about her son’s early days and his commitment to community issues as an attorney before venturing into politics.
“He’s worked very hard on this campaign and extremely hard being a New York State Assemblyman for his constituents,” she said proudly.
Her campaign involvement allowed her to further appreciate her son’s dedication to public service when she encountered individuals whose lives he positively impacted.
“I met someone who thanked him for helping her not get evicted from her apartment,” Barbara recounted, showcasing the tangible effects of Epstein’s advocacy.
The evening of celebration ultimately showcased more than just electoral results; it illustrated Epstein’s deep-rooted connection to his community and the genuine support he maintains as he goes forward.
While the voting process is still unfolding, the energy surrounding Harvey Epstein signals a promising new chapter for the Second District City Council as constituents await the final outcome.
image source from：amny
