As the 2024 mayoral race intensifies, conservative candidate Gonzalo Duran has emerged as a strong contender on the Conservative Party slate. Combining military experience, political leadership, and a commitment to community service, Duran offers a fresh conservative perspective aimed at tackling New York City’s most pressing issues, including crime, police reform, the mental health crisis, and economic challenges.
1. Duran’s Political Background
Question: Can you tell us about your political journey and what motivated you to run for mayor?
Duran: I’ve been involved in politics for over a decade, starting with civic engagement. Over the years, I became deeply involved in the political scene of the Bronx, where I grew up. In 2024, I ran for Congress in District 15, and it was an honor to earn support from the conservative community and the Republican Party. This year, I’m focused on the mayoral race, working to gain the backing of county leadership and state figures. My goal is to bring a fresh, conservative approach to the city’s leadership and tackle the challenges we face head-on.
2. Qualifications for Mayor
Question: What makes you qualified to lead New York City as mayor?
Duran: There’s no single “perfect” resume for the mayor’s office, but I bring a unique blend of leadership experience. As Vice Chairman of the Bronx Conservative Party, I’ve helped expand membership countywide, bringing over hundreds of conservatives into the party. Many of these new members now hold leadership roles. My military service as a U.S. Marine Sergeant taught me vital leadership, administrative, and budgeting skills. I’ve also spent over a decade in the nonprofit sector, working with a diverse range of communities throughout the city. While my legislative experience may be limited, my work in local politics and community service gives me a solid foundation for leading this city.
3. Critique of the Current Administration
Question: You’ve been vocal in your criticism of the current mayor. What are the main reasons for that?
Duran: The current mayor is facing a corruption investigation, making him the first sitting NYC mayor to face such charges. While corruption isn’t unique to him, his failure to enforce clear boundaries on campaign finance and lobbying influence is troubling. Leadership starts at the top—once nepotism and cronyism take root, it sets a dangerous precedent. We need a mayor who is committed to transparency, ethics, and putting the interests of the people above all else.
4. Addressing Mental Health
Question: Can you explain your stance on mental health issues, especially in light of the current mayor’s approach?
Duran: The current mayor’s mental health policies have been inconsistent and reactive. He initially pushed for forcibly removing individuals with mental health issues from the subway system but backed down after facing legal challenges and opposition. I believe we should have taken a stronger, more consistent stance. My approach would involve partnering with the NYPD and mental health professionals to provide the right care for individuals in crisis. We must ensure that those in need are identified and receive the support they deserve, while also keeping our public spaces safe.
5. Police Training and Support
Question: How would you ensure that the NYPD is properly equipped to handle mental health situations?
Duran: My priority would be to enhance police training, particularly in dealing with mental health crises. I would collaborate closely with the NYPD Commissioner to review and improve current training protocols. It’s not enough to simply train officers; they also need the resources and support to do their jobs effectively. Based on endorsements from former police organizations, I know that many officers feel unsupported by their leadership. As mayor, I would ensure that as long as officers are doing their jobs correctly, they will have my full backing.
6. Gun Violence in New York City
Question: What’s your stance on gun violence in the city, and how would you address it if elected mayor?
Duran: I’m a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, but New York City is unique, and as such faces a unique challenge with illegal firearms. Our focus needs to be on getting illegal guns off the streets and providing the NYPD with the tools and resources they need to combat gun violence effectively. I’ve heard from many NYPD captains and officers, and it’s clear that the force is undermanned and stretched thin. We need to invest in both manpower and equipment to ensure our streets are safe.
7. Crime and Police Manpower
Question: Would you focus more on increasing the number of police officers or improving the existing force?
Duran: Both are crucial. We need to ensure that the NYPD has enough officers to address crime and maintain a visible presence in neighborhoods. At the same time, we must support our current officers with better resources, training, and morale. Right now, the NYPD is facing significant manpower shortages, which affects their ability to address crime effectively. I would also review the NYPD’s budget before considering any additional funding, ensuring that taxpayer money is being used efficiently.
8. Economic Issues: Inflation and the Bronx
Question: How would you address the economic challenges, particularly in the Bronx, where inflation and rising costs are hitting hard?
Duran: While many of these issues are part of national and global trends, locally, we must focus on solutions that can ease the burden. The Bronx faces unique challenges, and addressing them will require collaboration between community members, local organizations, and elected officials. My approach would focus on financial education for youth, spreading awareness of available resources, and ensuring that taxpayer money is being spent efficiently. We must take a holistic approach to economic empowerment and address the needs of those who are most vulnerable.
9. Parental Rights and Prop 1
Question: You’ve expressed concerns about Prop 1. Could you elaborate on why you oppose it?
Duran: Prop 1 expanded certain rights, including provisions for undocumented immigrants and people with disabilities. However, it also allowed the possibility for children to receive medical treatments, such as vaccines and puberty blockers, without parental consent. I strongly believe that parents should have a primary role in decisions regarding their children’s health. Transparency and involvement are crucial. Prop 1, in my view, overreached by removing parents from the decision-making process and could have unintended negative consequences, especially for working-class families.
10. National Politics: Supporting Trump
Question: You supported Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. What led to that decision?
Duran: Initially, I was uncertain about Trump, but as the Conservative Party’s endorsed candidate, I supported him with my capacity. As I watched how the Democratic Party handled his campaign—particularly the legal challenges—it became clear to me that Trump’s leadership was needed. Despite my reservations, I believe his policies were better for America than the current administration, which has failed to address the real issues facing the country.
11. Working with Democrats in New York City
Question: How do you plan to work with Democrats in a city that’s largely under their control?
Duran: As a moderate conservative, I believe in finding common ground. I’ve worked with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents throughout my career, and I’m confident in my ability to build coalitions. My focus would be on addressing common challenges, whether it’s homelessness, public safety, or economic growth. While not everyone will agree with my approach, bold change requires collaboration. I’m committed to improving New York City for everyone, no matter their political affiliation.
12. Foreign Policy: U.S. Involvement in Ukraine
Question: What is your stance on President Biden’s decision to approve long-range missiles for Ukraine?
Duran: I believe the U.S. should reassess its involvement in foreign conflicts. We’ve spent billions overseas, which has contributed to inflation and a growing national deficit. We need a foreign policy that prioritizes American interests and addresses the concerns of taxpayers. As a veteran, I understand the importance of a strong military, but I believe our foreign policy should be more focused on strategic interests that directly benefit the U.S.
13. The Global Impact of War
Question: What could prolonged U.S. involvement in a foreign war mean for the nation?
Duran: A prolonged war, particularly with a global power like Russia, could shift the balance of power in unpredictable and dangerous ways. It risks escalating into a broader conflict with catastrophic consequences for global stability. We need to be cautious about entangling ourselves in conflicts that do not serve our national interests.
14. Encouraging Young Voters
Question: What would you say to young people who haven’t registered to vote yet or those who feel disconnected from the political process?
Duran: I’ve worked hard to engage young people in politics, ensuring they have a voice in shaping the future. If elected mayor, my goal would be to unite all parts of New York City and ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of our population. Young people are the future, and their involvement in the political process is crucial. I want to make sure they know their voices matter and that they can be a driving force for change.
As Gonzalo Duran continues his campaign for mayor, his platform emphasizes strong leadership, public safety, support for law enforcement, and addressing the economic and mental health challenges facing New York City. With a bold conservative vision, Duran aims to bridge political divides and bring practical solutions to the city’s most pressing problems. Whether his conservative principles will propel him to victory in a city dominated by liberal politics remains to be seen, but his passion for change is undeniable.
Be First to Comment