Yesterday, the Bronx County Conservative Party held a Candidate Mixer where just over 50 individuals convened, including more than a dozen candidates running for the 2024 elections against Democratic incumbents.
The event took place in the Crotona Park East area of the Bronx, which is in the heart of the NY-15 congressional district. This district is currently represented by Congressman Ritchie Torres.
Patrick McManus, Chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party, welcomed all the candidates from across the Bronx and guests from all five boroughs, expressing his support for the candidates and the conservative movement. McManus frequently emphasized the importance of unity and determination to the audience.
Gonzalo Duran, the conservative candidate for the 15th congressional district, Vice Chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party, and the District Leader for the 79th Assembly District, served as the hosting representative.
Duran’s opening statement set the tone for the night with a strong stance against the Democratic Party. Duran declared, “I am here tonight for one reason only: to help bring down the reign of the Democratic machine that has taken advantage of the Bronx for far too long.”
With nearly a dozen additional speakers, each representing different assembly, senate, and congressional districts, it was clear that many candidates were running their first campaigns but had been very active in their communities. Some were seasoned challengers with new strategies for this year’s elections. Many expressed that with the anticipated “red wave,” they believe this is their best chance to make a significant impact.
These sentiments resonated with the audience, who enthusiastically cheered and clapped for each candidate.
The candidate roster included the following, though not all were in attendance: Ruben Vargas (NY Congress – 13), Tina Forte (NY Congress – 14), Gonzalo Duran (NY Congress – 15), Dion Powell (State Senate – 33rd), Edwinna Herrera (State Senate – 34th), Emmanuel Findlay (State Assembly – 79th), Grace Marrero (State Assembly – 80th), Kevin Pazmino (State Assembly – 81st), Stephanie Liggio (State Assembly – 83rd), Tyreek Goodman (State Assembly – 84th), Gary Lutz (State Assembly – 85th), and Darney Rivers (State Assembly – 86th).
McManus declared the event a total success. “I am honored and humbled to have had audience members from all parts of the five boroughs and even as far as Rockland County,” he said. “This shows that people from every corner of the city and state are fed up with the direction that Democratic leadership has taken us. I look forward to being a part of this movement and helping to change its trajectory.”
The night concluded with a speech from guest speaker Joe Pinion, a nationally prominent conservative figure. Pinion addressed the audience, reflecting on the dynamic political landscape of the Bronx. His speech captivated many in the audience, providing inspiration and guidance as they embark on their political journeys. Candidates and guests were thrilled to take pictures with Pinion, who continued to engage with attendees long after the event had officially ended.
The sentiment shared among the audience was that change is on the horizon. Whether any significant shift occurs will be determined by this year’s elections. What is certain is that the Democratic Party might need to start listening more closely to the people.
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