Jeffries Backs Cornegy in District Leader Race

New York State Assemblyman and Democratic nominee for Congress Hakeem Jeffries last week announced his endorsement of Robert Cornegy, Jr. for district leader/state committeeman in the 56th A.D., serving Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights and parts of Bushwick.

Cornegy is seeking a second term as district leader in the 56th A.D. and so far has only one opponent, Al Wiltshire, chief of staff for Congressman Ed Towns, who Towns publicly endorsed on Friday-- two days following Jeffries's endorsement of Cornegy.

Cornegy calls Jeffries's endorsement and honor, lauding the assemblyman's efforts in challenging stop and frisk policies, ending prison gerrymandering and securing funding for affordable housing.

"Through his work in the state legislature, Hakeem has shown what we can accomplish together as a community," said Cornegy.

Aside from serving as district leader, Cornegy works as a legislative policy analyst for the Committees on Aging and Veterans Affairs in the New York City Council. He serves on the Youth, Education and Safety Task Force for Community Board 3 and earlier this year, was named the new president of the Vanguard Independent Democratic Association (VIDA).

Cornegy also is a delegate to the Democratic National Convention for President Barack Obama, and he serves as the neighborhood team leader for the Central Brooklyn branch of Organize for America, the umbrella grassroots project of the DNC that has been working to mobilize supporters and voters for the president's re-election efforts.

“Robert’s service as district leader has been commendable and his continuation in that role will be an important step forward for our community," said Jeffries (57th A.D.). "I value his work ethic, vitality and partnership, and will work hard to make sure he is re-elected in a resounding fashion.”

More endorsements surrounding the district leader seat are expected from the Democratic electorate in the coming weeks, including that of State Assemblywoman Annette Robinson of the 56th A.D., according to the incumbent district leader.