To the editor:

I am writing today to express my strong support for George Latimer to represent congressional district 16 in the June 25 Democratic primary. Many people I know have no idea who represents them in political office. I am fortunate that, thanks to Latimer’s extraordinary engagement with constituents, I have observed up close what an effective, progressive leader he is. Thousands of Westchester residents share my experience. Latimer gets things done.

Latimer has a clear record of progressive actions. He is a strong advocate for the environment, workers, women’s reproductive rights, inclusion, housing and healthcare access and more. Carefully worded mailers try to tarnish Latimer by picturing him next to Republicans as if he shares right-wing policies. In fact he:

Fought for and signed the bill protecting patients entering abortion clinics.

Replaced diesel-fueled county buses with electric.

Embraced and implemented the Police Reform and Reimagining Task Force recommendations.

Banned gun shows on county property.

Made bus rides free to ease transportation costs for disadvantaged communities and to promote public transportation.

Supported workers through the Anti-Wage Theft Law.

Signed a ban on gay conversion therapy.

Oversaw $250 million in grants to minority and women-owned businesses.

Initiated cable broadcast of county board of legislators meetings to improve transparency.

Lowered the term limit on county executive from three to two terms, limiting his own service.

This is just a partial list. George Latimer’s progressive accomplishments have repeatedly earned him the endorsement of the Working Families Party. He accomplished all this while taking no pay raise himself, and carefully managing, and even decreasing, our taxes.

This congressional district only gets one congressional representative. Let’s choose the person who’s proved he focuses on his constituents, not cameras: George Latimer.

Dana Thayer

540 Stellar Ave.