Council, Coop, Vote

Since—as much as I hope for it—we won’t have open elections until at least 2026, I want to highlight two races where your vote can still make a real difference—and share who I’m voting for (and who I’d recommend you vote for, too).

First up: the Democratic primary for the 39th Council District, where Council Member Shahana Hanif is exactly who you want in government. From housing to street safety to the immediate, everyday needs of the district, she works to find the best path forward. Like Shahana, I was born and raised in the 39th and am fortunate to live and work in it to this day. I was proud to support her in her first election and even prouder to recommend that you vote for her again. Whether it’s fighting for safe streets, standing up for tenants, helping deliver a temporary home for the Carroll Gardens Library , or working to close a concrete facility on Columbia Street, Shahana does the work—and I know that firsthand. I’ve worked with her in various capacities on all of these issues, and I’ve seen how seriously she takes both the policy and the people affected by it. The 39th is better for it—and she deserves another term.

Further reinforcing Shahana’s skill set is the fact that the runner-up in her first election in 2021, Brandon West, is now one of her biggest advocates. Oftentimes the dynamic between candidates ends up being one of bitterness—but not here. In fact, Shahana appointed Brandon to Brooklyn Community Board 6 in 2022. Many candidates I’ve dealt with over the years pull back after a loss. Brandon did the opposite—he leaned in.

That brings me to the second voting recommendation I promised back in the first paragraph: Brandon West, who’s running for reelection to the Board—and to remain as President—of the Park Slope Food Coop.

This race may not be as public, but the total votes cast might not be all that different. The Coop is facing real challenges and urgent questions about whether it’s still living up to its democratic values. That’s why I’m supporting Brandon. In fact, I went online and cast my vote for him while writing this piece. You can vote online via SimplyVoting, or cast a physical ballot or proxy at the Coop. He’s one of the most dedicated and principled people I know. He’s worked hard to support the Coop’s recent proclamation calling for an end to the war in Gaza, and he’s deeply engaged in its long-running and sometimes polarizing debates. (Small aside: just last week, Brandon had the idea and presented a Community Board 6 proclamation honoring Coop founder Joe Holtz—one I had the pleasure of writing. This all reinforces how involved Brandon is, and why—especially when a founder retires after 50 years—you’d want the continuity and work ethic of Brandon.

To suggest Brandon represents a “third way” or centrist stance is wildly off the mark. Even those who disagree with him would never mistake him for a practitioner of mushy-middle politics. He’s thoughtful, he works harder than most, and he holds firm to Coop democracy. That’s exactly the kind of leadership the Coop needs now.

Two very different races—City Council and Coop Board—but both offer a chance, especially until we get open elections, to increase democratization.

Next time I write in this space, it’ll be my preference for the mayoral race—and maybe a few other key elections.

P.S. Early voting for the June 24 Democratic primary begins June 14 and runs through June 22.