NY 29th Senate District Race Preview: Serrano Vs. Carmichael

Background

The 29th New York State Senate District is located in the Bronx and includes the neighborhoods of Mott Haven, Port Morris, Hunts Point, Soundview, and Clason Point.

The district is currently represented by Jose M. Serrano, a Democrat who has held the seat since 1995. Serrano is retiring this year, and two Democrats are running to replace him: Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda and City Council Member Diana Ayala.

The Candidates

Luis Sepulveda

Sepulveda is a lifelong resident of the Bronx and has been a member of the State Assembly since 2013. He is the chair of the Assembly's Committee on Correction and is a member of the Assembly's committees on Ways and Means, Housing, and Economic Development.

Diana Ayala

Ayala is a native of the Dominican Republic and has been a member of the City Council since 2009. She is the chair of the Council's Committee on Civil Service and Labor and is a member of the Council's committees on Finance, Education, and Transportation.

The Issues

The candidates have released few detailed policy statements, but they have both pledged to focus on improving education, affordable housing, and public safety in the district.

Sepulveda has also said that he will work to create jobs and invest in infrastructure, while Ayala has said that she will work to reduce crime and improve the quality of life for residents.

The Race

The race is expected to be close, and both candidates have raised significant amounts of money. Sepulveda has the endorsement of the Democratic Party, while Ayala has the endorsement of the Working Families Party.

The primary election will be held on June 28, 2023, and the general election will be held on November 7, 2023.