The New York Times endorsed Bill de Blasio for New York City mayor, calling his rise as a public advocate “remarkable.”
In an article published Saturday written by the paper’s editorial board, an in-depth analysis of de Blasio’s campaign laid the groundwork for what the paper believes led to his win of the Democratic nomination and ultimately, an endorsement from one of the world’s most distinguished media outlets.
Prior to de Blasio earning this recognition, the Times admits that it was former candidate Christine Quinn who originally had the paper’s endorsement.
“But it was Mr. de Blasio who proved far better at connecting with voters — and at being a persuasive advocate for his ideas,” the article reads. “The ideas are good ones: Mr. de Blasio is right on public safety, and on the need to rein in the Police Department’s unconstitutional use of stop-and-frisk tactics and restore its frayed ties to the community. He is right about the crisis of affordable housing, and he has the most comprehensive plan to attack it. His goal of expanding access to preschool education is a noble priority for the city.”
Despite de Blasio’s effective campaigning and surge in the polls, results will not be known until after election day next week.
De Blasio is up against Republican nominee Joe Lhota, who has recently been under fire for releasing what some have called an “attack ad” against his competition.
“It has been disheartening to see the usually levelheaded Mr. Lhota basing his campaign on fear, apparently having concluded that he won’t win on managerial competence,” the Times wrote.
“He released a terrifying ad warning that electing Mr. de Blasio would unleash the forces of ’70s-era crime and chaos, all but promising the return of crack dens, squeegee men, race riots and Son of Sam. After decades of steadily plunging crime, it’s a ludicrous claim. If crime rises — and it may well rise under any mayor — it will not be, as Mr. Lhota has implied, because Mayor de Blasio’s N.Y.P.D. was off giving group therapy to biker gangs,” the paper added.
In closing, the Times wrote:
For all his reliance on his well-worn “tale of two cities” metaphor, Mr. de Blasio has already united New York. Voters across the boroughs support him overwhelmingly. He promises to be a mayor who listens instead of scolds, who calms fears instead of inciting them. If he combines his populist touch with attentive, courageous leadership, he will have earned the city’s support; he already has ours.”
To read the full column, click here.
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