Hoboken Board of Education Trustee Chetali Khanna is endorsing 3rd Ward Councilman Mike Russo for mayor, as well as his running mates Liz Urtecho, Nicole Magaña, and Pete Keeling for city council at-large.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I am proud to endorse Dr. Michael Russo for Mayor and Team Russo for City Council At-Large in Hoboken, a group that brings together experienced leadership, fresh perspectives, and a genuine commitment to the issues that matter most: affordability, quality of life, and transparent, responsive government,” she said in a statement.
“With Michael’s longtime service on the City Council, and alongside his talented running mates, I believe this slate is uniquely prepared to deliver lasting, forward-looking solutions that reflect the true needs and values of our community.”
Her endorsement comes after Hoboken BOE President Ailene McGuirk backed Councilwoman-at-Large Emily Jabbour for mayor over the weekend.
She was the top vote getter on November 4th, as was her at-large council slate of Councilman Joe Quintero, Zoning Board Chair Steve Firestone, and Caitlin Lawson.
“What sets Michael apart is his character and his approach to leadership. He is genuine, smart, resilient, honest, and hard-working. He listens to everyone regardless of viewpoint or political affiliation because he values dialogue, even when opinions differ. True leadership is about building bridges, not walls, and Michael models that every day,” Khanna added.
“Unfortunately, some have chosen to portray Michael unfairly, using fear-mongering false narratives that divide our community. These claims are false and harmful especially in a small city where we co-exist. This rhetoric deepens the divide between ‘old’ and ‘new’ Hoboken and between political parties. Hoboken is one square mile—ALL of us are Hoboken—and we should be working together.”
The non-partisan runoff elections in Hoboken are on December 2nd.
Here’s what she told Patch in 2017:
“I will not be endorsing anyone for Mayor or for City Council. I believe it is in the best interest of the district and its students if I, as a candidate for BOE, remain neutral. Serving the community and the needs of the children in our district are my priority. However, whoever is elected mayor or to the council will work collaboratively with the BOE and Superintendent.”
Can you smell a backroom deal?
Nice to know who the bad guys are supporting.