Former Nassau County Executive Laura Curran has endorsed Robert Zimmerman, a longtime Democratic National Committee member from Great Neck running for his party’s nomination in the 3rd Congressional District.
Curran joins prominent state officials Assemblyman Charles Lavine and Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who endorsed Zimmerman weeks ago.
“Now more than ever, we need honest, thoughtful, and capable leadership in government – and that’s why I endorse Robert Zimmerman for Congress,” Curran said in a statement. “Robert brings the knowledge, experience, and work ethic needed to benefit all the residents of the Third Congressional District.
“As a small business owner and advocate, Robert will support and strengthen our communities through investments in public safety, workforce development, and infrastructure projects. He will protect access to health care, women’s rights, voting rights, and much more. Whether it is on national tv or in our neighborhoods, Robert has been there fighting for us. Please join me in supporting my friend, Robert Zimmerman, so that he may continue his advocacy for all of us in the United States Congress.”
Zimmerman, 67, is co-president of ZE Creative Communications on Bond Street, a public relations firm he began 33 years ago with Ron Edelson.
He is seeking the congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove), who is running for governor.
Since his announcement, Zimmerman’s campaign said it has raised over $500,000.
If elected, Zimmerman would become the first gay member of Congress from Long Island and Queens.
Other endorsements for Zimmerman’s campaign include current North Hempstead council members Veronica Lurvey and Peter Zuckerman as well as retired Councilwoman Lee Seeman.
Seeman recently sent a letter for Zimmerman’s campaign calling him a man of principle.
“For decades, Robert has served as a leading voice for democratic policies,” Seeman said in a statement. “He is a steadfast supporter for a truly safe and secure Israel and a two state solution in the Middle East. Robert will also fight for voting rights, restore the SALT deduction, demand the child tax credit be made permanent and enact important social programs like Medicare for All. He will be the staunch advocate we need in Congress.”
According to newly drawn lines, the 3rd Congressional District will include several areas in Westchester County and the Bronx along with Manhasset, Roslyn, Port Washington, Great Neck, Floral Park, and Whitestone, Queens, among other areas, and stretches to Kings Park in Suffolk County.
Following the approval of new congressional maps by state legislators last week, a Republican-led group filed a lawsuit claiming the Democrats gerrymandered the districts to retain control of the House.
Others running for the Democratic nomination in the district include former North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman, Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan, state Sen. Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, Oyster Bay’s Reema Rasool and Melanie D’Arrigo of Port Washington.
George Santos and Kevin Surdi are seeking the Republican nomination.
