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The race for New York City comptroller is heating up, with candidates Justin Brannan and Mark Levine taking starkly different approaches to a contentious issue: the Israel-Palestine conflict. As Brannan holds a campaign fundraiser with far-left Councilwoman Tiffany Caban, Levine is touting a poll that suggests he is leading the primary race by a significant margin.
Fundraising with controversy
Brannan’s campaign event, co-hosted by Caban, has drawn attention due to Caban’s outspoken criticism of Israel. Known for her ties to the Democratic Socialists of America, Caban has made headlines for her pro-Palestinian stance, famously declaring that “queer liberation means ‘Free Palestine!'” during a Pride Month celebration.
Her social media posts have included slogans like “Queer as in Free Palestine” and have sparked debates about the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and international politics.
At the event, Brannan is positioned as the “Working People’s Bulldog,” appealing to the left-leaning Working Families Party.
However, his association with Caban and her controversial views may alienate moderate voters who are sensitive to the complexities of the Israel-Palestine issue. Additionally, Brannan has received donations from Linda Sarsour, a prominent advocate for the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, further complicating his campaign narrative.
Levine’s polling advantage
On the other side of the political spectrum, Levine, the Manhattan borough president, claims a commanding lead in the race, with a recent internal poll showing him at 33% compared to Brannan’s 14%. The poll, conducted by the Global Strategy Group, indicates that Levine’s support spans across various demographics, including a significant portion of Hispanic and Jewish voters.
His campaign emphasizes a multi-racial coalition, positioning him as a unifying candidate in a divided political landscape.
Levine’s strategy appears to resonate with voters who are still undecided, as many remain unfamiliar with the candidates. His campaign argues that Brannan’s reliance on negative campaigning against small donors reflects desperation rather than confidence in his position.
As the primary election approaches, Levine’s team is focused on consolidating support and expanding his lead.
The implications of the primary
The upcoming primary on June 24, preceded by early voting from June 14-22, will determine who will replace current Comptroller Brad Lander, who is running for mayor. The stakes are high, as the comptroller’s role is crucial in managing the city’s finances and overseeing its budget. The candidates’ differing views on sensitive issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict could significantly influence voter turnout and preferences.
As the campaign unfolds, both Brannan and Levine must navigate the complexities of their alliances and the public’s perception of their positions. With the political climate becoming increasingly polarized, the outcome of this race may reflect broader societal divisions within New York City and beyond.
