LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Who is a progressive?

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To the editor:

The Sept. 13 primary for the state senate seat currently held by Jeff Klein is shaping up to be a crucial battle between politics as usual, or worse, and the possibility of achieving a truly progressive agenda in the time of Trump.

Sen. Klein has been touting his progressive credentials, but for seven years, he has voted with the Republican majority in the state senate to kill progressive legislation before it could reach the floor for a vote.

Two examples: Sen. Klein claims to be a supporter of women’s reproductive rights and single-payer health care. Yet for the past seven years, he and his IDC colleagues have blocked the Reproductive Health Act and New York Health Act.

Klein and the Independent Democratic Conference have also blocked immigration sanctuary legislation, environmental legislation to eliminate carbon emissions, and more than 15 bills on criminal justice reform, election law, and voting rights.

The Sept. 13 primary is about more than “bringing home the bacon,” of which Sen. Klein is so proud. We all know that with the Trump administration holding sway in Washington, it is crucial for New York to chart its own course to protect and promote essential services and rights. 

Alessandra Biaggi is the true progressive alternative with a proven track record. She deserves our vote on Sept. 13.

Peter Beitchman

Peter Beitchman

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