Several parade-goers slowed down the politicians to share concerns about various issues. José Martinez, who lives on the Grand Concourse, asked Mr. Rivera to do something about people who do not clean up after their dogs. East Bronx resident Iris Gonzalez asked Mr. Cabrera, who has mixed Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, to help individuals like her find affordable homes.

Mr. Cabrera’s 14th city council district overlaps with Mr. Rivera’s 33rd state senate district. Mr. Rivera, who lives near the site of the parade, said he viewed the event as a chance to maintain ties with his constituents. He added that most people are not usually aware of elections until the final weeks leading up to them. Mr. Cabrera, a pastor whose church is located off the Grand Concourse, said he hoped his appearance would start to spread the word about his state senate run.

Rep. Charles Rangel also came to the parade. His main Democratic primary challenger, state Sen. Adriano Espaillat, was in Puerto Rico to meet with supporters, but sent a large truck covered in election posters to the event. The nearly 30-year-old parade celebrates the achievements of Puerto Ricans, the largest ethnic group in the Bronx.

After meeting Mr. Cabrera at the parade, Wendy Reyes said she would support him and that she hopes he will bring about cultural changes.

“Stop calling us, viewing us as minorities,” she said. “We’re tired of that word. We want to be like everybody else”