Citing a desire to help the Cuban people, former West New York Mayor Felix Roque has announced his withdrawal from the race about a month after announcing.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my withdrawal from the upcoming municipal election for the position of Mayor of the Town of West New York. As a doctor and a retired U.S. Army officer, I have always been passionate about serving my country and helping people. This, coupled with my deep desire to bring freedom to the Cuban people, has led me to the difficult decision to refocus my efforts,” Roque said in statement.
“Although I believe that I could have made a positive impact as your mayor, I have come to the realization that there are far better ways for me to use my talents and abilities. Therefore, I have decided to pursue my dreams of helping the people of my community and my country, Cuba, in different ways.”
Roque, the mayor between 2011 and 2019, formally kicked off his candidacy at an event at Las Palmas on January 19th, where he also unveiled two running mates: former Policemen’s Benevolent Association President Tommy Mannion and real estate professional Carmen Baez.
He later unveiled Police Officer Elvis Alvarez as his fourth running mate, but never announced a fifth and final commissioner candidate.
“Growing up in a communist nation, the only thing I never had to give up was my dreams. I am grateful to be living in a country where impossible dreams can come true, and I plan to work towards making that a reality for the people of Cuba,” Roque added.
“I want to thank the residents of West New York for their support and understanding. It was an honor to go door-to-door and meet so many of you, and I will always cherish the memories and friendships that were made during my two terms as the prior Mayor of this great town.”
This now likely leaves former Congressman Albio Sires in a head-to-head matchup with Public Affairs Commissioner Cosmo Cirillo in the non-partisan May 9th municipal elections.
Bye Creep. Roque u should be in jail!
Felix should run for city councilman in Hoboken on Ravinder Bhalla’s ticket. He would fit right in down there!
Roque should go back to Cuba so he can really help the people hands on. He fits right in with the dictatorship. Disgusting liar and creep. His family escaped Cuba for freedom so the miserable PoS tried to turn WNY into a dictatorship when he was mayor. I’m sure he saw the writing on the wall so he gave up his ill-advised candidacy. What a jerk! Good riddance, Roque. Stay in your tacky house in Weehawken.