ITHACA, N.Y. –– Sunrise Movement Ithaca has endorsed Anna Kelles’ bid for New York State Assembly’s 125th District.
“We know Anna Kelles will fight alongside us to defeat fossil fuel companies and help build a more just, green economy,” said Sunrise Ithaca in a statement via Facebook. “Anna will also work to defund the police, invest in Black and Brown communities, and continue to fight for working-class families, through her advocacy of universal healthcare, affordable housing and childcare for all New Yorkers.”
The group, active locally since 2019, aims to take action against climate change through activism and legislation. They launched several write-in campaigns against members of City of Ithaca Common Council last November.
The youth-based organization noted that they believe Kelles is the candidate that will assist them in their mission.
“I am thrilled to have the support of these amazing young people moving our region to a culture of climate justice,” said Kelles. “They are the leaders of today, and their activism is such an important part of the climate conversation.”
Kelles has also picked up the endorsements of, Eleanor’s Legacy, The Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 267, The Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 3 and The Tompkins-Cortland Building & Construction Trades Council and Working Families Party.
She is one of the seven candidates for the Democratic ticket after the longtime Assemblymember Barbara Lifton announced her retirement. The other candidates include Jordan Lesser, the former Legislative Counsel to Lifton; Lisa Hoeschele of Cortland; Seph Murtagh, City of Ithaca Alderperson; Jason Leifer, Dryden Town Supervisor; Beau Harbin, Cortland County Legislator; local attorney Sujata Gibson.
The primary will be held on June 23. Due to COVID-19, all voters are able to request absentee ballots and early voting begins on June 13.