The New York chapter of Americans for Democratic Action endorsed candidates in the September 13 primary elections. The chairperson of the Political Action Committee, Jim Levin, explained the first-ballot endorsement of Fernando Ferrer for Mayor, saying that he was viewed as "an able leader who could bring New York back from 12 years of Republican coddling of the wealthy and develop policies, especially in housing and education, which would lead to a more prosperous city for everyone. His outstanding administration as Bronx Borough President, which revived that Borough, and his ability to communicate with all New Yorkers, makes him our clear choice."

ADA voted to support Norman Siegel for Public Advocate because his activist style would make him a more effective Public Advocate than Betsy Gotbaum. His years as an advocate for the New York Civil Liberties Union would make him admirably suited to the advocacy of the position.

Scott Stringer was felt to be the candidate with the most realistic program for the limited powers of the Manhattan Borough President's office. His negotiation skills and energy as demonstrated in the State Assembly could bring some pep to the office.

Only after serious debate did ADA choose Leslie Crocker Snyder for New York County District Attorney over incumbent Robert Morgenthau. There was deep concern about Crocker Snyder's support of the death penalty, and the endorsement was made with a caveat that ADA strongly disagreed with her position on that issue. However, ADA felt that the office is presently run poorly, and that New Yorkers are wasting money on inefficient administration. Better training could be provided for Assistant District Attorneys that would help shorten court calendars and allow greater concentration on important cases. There was also concern that the present composition of the office does not properly represent the diversity of the Manhattan population. ADA felt Crocker Snyder had the plans and enthusiasm to correct these problems.

ADA also endorsed candidates in five Manhattan City Council Districts. Because of his thorough understanding of how the New York City Council operates and very profound awareness of specific legislative issues, ADA chose Brian Kavanagh as its choice in Council District 2. Kavanagh is the former chief of staff to current Councilmember Gale Brewer.

Jack Lester was ADA's choice in District 4 because of his long experience in the political trenches in many diverse projects for helping people. He has spent years practicing grassroots tenant law and defending tenants and neighborhoods against short-sighted developers.

Jessica Lappin demonstrated composure and sensible goals and was the choice in Council District 5. She is the current district chief of staff to Council Speaker Miller, and stood up to a number of tough questions from the committee.

Newcomer Melissa Mark-Viverito seemed head and shoulders over her competition for the seat in Council District 8. Born in Puerto Rico, she went to school at Columbia University and has worked as a community activist and labor organizer for SEIU 1199, the health care union.

Another labor organizer (for Social Service Employees #371), Rodney Carroll was our choice in Council District 9 because he seemed much more attuned to constituents' needs than politicians blessed by the reform movement of a previous generation. He is approachable and personable and has spent years interacting with area residents on an individual and personal level.