Rivera is dedicated to serving

To the editor:

State Sen. Gustavo Rivera and I first met as staffers in the U.S. Senate. Gustavo worked for Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand’s office, and I for Sen. Chuck Schumer.

In my 15-plus years of knowing him as a leader, organizer, advocate and friend, I have always known Gustavo to be an honest broker — a team player with a laser-focus of delivering for the families he represents. Gustavo will work with anyone it takes to get the job done — treating stakeholders, colleagues, and community members fairly in the process.

In his dozen-plus years in office, Gustavo has fought for greater health care access, assistance for children suffering from lead poisoning, and affordable housing options. He is a pragmatic leader who understands the intricacies of the state legislature and what it takes to bring the deliver for his families.

As a former legislator myself, I know the deep levels of dedication that go into serving the people of New York in state government. Gustavo’s tenure in Albany represents the strength of the community relationships he’s maintained throughout his leadership.

He has led the battle for quality health care for all, and is a sponsor of the New York Health Act, making the most of his position as chair of the senate health committee. He has fought for protections against lead poisoning, which has harmed countless children in the Bronx. And he is a relentless champion for affordable housing, and an economy that works for all of us, fighting to deliver good jobs and resources to the community.

I urge you to vote for my friend Gustavo Rivera in the Aug. 23 primary contest.

It’s important for all of us, as residents of New York, to elect leaders like Gustavo who has a powerful record of delivering for working families, and I am proud to enthusiastically support him in the primary.

Phil Goldfeder

The author is a former Assemblyman representing neighborhoods in Queens between 2011 and 2016