Candidate Answers to JOLDC: Antonio Reynoso for Brooklyn Borough President
Candidate Name: Antonio Reynoso
Office Seeking Election for: Bronx Borough President
Campaign Website: https://www.reynosoforbrooklyn.com/
1. Based upon your life experiences and accomplishments, why do you believe you are best qualified to represent your district?
I’m running for re-election as Brooklyn Borough President because the work I’ve started is far from finished. From day one, my vision has been “a Brooklyn for All”—a borough where diverse communities can thrive, where working-class families aren’t priced out, and where every resident has access to the resources they need to live with dignity. I’ve proven that the Borough President’s office can be a force for meaningful change, and I’m committed to continuing the fight for affordable housing, better healthcare, environmental justice, and real public safety solutions that uplift communities instead of criminalizing them.
My leadership is shaped by both my lived experience and my 12 years of elected public service, first as a City Councilmember and now as Borough President. I grew up in Section 8 housing with immigrant parents, so I understand the struggles that
working-class Brooklynites face. As a father of two young children, including one with a developmental disability, I know firsthand how critical it is to invest in education, healthcare, and social services. This perspective drives my work every day, ensuring that I fight for policies that make a real difference in people’s lives. I am running because I believe in a Brooklyn that works for everyone—not just the wealthy or
well-connected—and I will continue to use my office to build a more just, equitable, and livable borough for all.
2. What LGBTQ organizations have you been involved with, either on a volunteer basis or professionally? What LGBTQ candidates have you endorsed?
As Brooklyn Borough President and formerly as a City Councilmember, I have been a steadfast advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, directly supporting key legislation in the Council, securing resources for the Brooklyn Pride Center, and working in coalition with fellow Brooklyn elected officials to ensure equitable funding for LGBTQ+ nonprofits. I have also been a strong supporter of the Ali Forney Center, actively promoting and securing resources for its critical work in protecting homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Through legislative action and direct community support, I have remained committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and justice for LGBTQ+ Brooklynites. Should I win re-election, I will continue to push for concrete achievements that support the LGBTQ+ community in Brooklyn and across New York City.
I have also endorsed many LGBTQ candidates across the city. To name a handful I was proud to support Samy Nemir-Olivares, Chi Ossé, Ritchie Torres, Carlos Menchaca and Elisa Crespo.
3. If you receive our endorsement, do you agree to identify the Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club on all literature and electronic materials?
Yes
4. What press conferences, demonstrations, rallies and protests in support of LGBT issues, pro-choice legislation, racial justice, criminal justice have you attended, including rallies specifically against Donald Trump?
I have consistently used my platform to speak out against attacks on our rights, whether they come from Donald Trump or other forces seeking to roll back progress. I stood up publicly against Trump’s assault on New York’s ability to govern itself, including efforts to undermine congestion pricing—an important environmental justice measure—and his broader attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive freedom, and racial justice. IWhether it’s fighting back against Trump-era rollbacks or standing alongside advocates for criminal justice reform, I remain committed to protecting the rights of all New Yorkers.
5. In light of the upcoming Trump Administration’s war on women, the LGBTQ+ community, racial minorities and immigrants, what are your plans to organize and combat the Trump agenda?
As Brooklyn Borough President, I am committed to actively resisting harmful policies from the Trump administration, particularly those that target women, the LGBTQ+ community, racial minorities, and immigrants. Under my leadership, we’ve already taken concrete steps, such as opening a Satellite Asylum Application Help Center at Borough Hall, where we’ve completed over 5,000 work authorization applications to help migrants build stable lives in Brooklyn. I will continue to ensure that New York remains a sanctuary city by refusing to cooperate with ICE and ensuring that immigrants feel safe and supported in our borough.
In response to potential federal cuts to critical programs, I will strategically use the Borough President’s budget to minimize the impact on marginalized communities. These cuts threaten essential services, from shelters for domestic violence survivors to summer youth programs and senior centers. I will prioritize funding for community-based services, immigrant rights organizations, and programs supporting education and senior services, ensuring that Brooklyn’s most vulnerable populations remain protected. I will continue to advocate for policies that defend our values and safeguard the future of our borough in the face of federal overreach.
6. Will you seek or accept endorsements of individuals who oppose LGBTQ+ and reproductive rights, such as Ruben Diaz Sr., Fernando Cabrera or Erick Salgado? Will you pledge to denounce their homophobia and anti-choice positions in the event you receive an endorsement from such individuals?
I will not be seeking any of those endorsements and I do pledge to denounce those positions.
7. In light of the upcoming Trump Administration’s war on women, the LGBTQ+ community, racial minorities and immigrants, what are your plans to organize and combat the Trump agenda?
See question 5.
8. Do you support the unrestricted right to reproductive care and abortion?
Yes
9. Have you hosted, funded or otherwise supported Drag Story Hours in your community?
I have been supportive of Drag Story Hours in the past but as Borough President have not hosted one. However, I think that is a great idea and I will definitely look into doing it.
10. What proposals will you support to increase the protection of immigrants and cement New York City’s status as a Sanctuary City?
I strongly support strengthening NYC’s sanctuary city policies. I believe that our work is not done until every child can safely and confidently go to school, every New York resident can access the healthcare they need, and people do not live in fear.
Strengthening sanctuary city policies is about ensuring that immigrants feel safe and supported in our city, regardless of their status. This means making it clear that local agencies will not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement and ensuring that our immigrant communities have access to vital services without fear of deportation.
11. How will you represent the most vulnerable, including individuals experiencing homelessness and asylum seekers? Have you ever opposed any shelter in your district?
As Brooklyn Borough President, I am deeply committed to representing and supporting our most vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness and asylum seekers. I am a strong supporter of homeless shelters, even when it is politically difficult, recognizing that providing shelter is an essential part of supporting those in need. For individuals suffering from severe mental illness—especially those who become homeless as a result—I am advocating for a housing-first model that ties supportive housing to accessible mental health resources, ensuring that people have the care they need to rebuild their lives.
In addition, under my leadership, we have taken concrete steps to support asylum seekers, including opening a Satellite Asylum Application Help Center at Borough Hall. This initiative has already helped complete over 5,000 work authorization applications, assisting migrants in establishing stable lives in Brooklyn. I am committed to continuing to find actionable ways to improve people’s lives sustainably and will work tirelessly to ensure that Brooklyn remains a welcoming and supportive place for all its residents, no
matter their background or circumstance.
12. If incumbent, are you a co-sponsor of Resolution 2970, introduced by Council Member Shahana Hanif? If not yet elected, will you promise to co-sponsor the resolution? The text urges the NYS Legislature to pass the New York for All Act, which would ensure state and local resources are not used to facilitate federal immigration enforcement. If not, please explain.
I am a supporter of this bill.
13. If incumbent, are you a co-sponsor of Resolution 2917, introduced by Council Member Crystal Hudson? If not yet elected, will you promise to co-sponsor the resolution? The text endorses the Access to Representation Act, which would establish a “universal right to counsel” for indigent New Yorkers who are subject to removal proceedings under federal immigration law. If not, please explain.
I am a supporter of this bill.
14. Will you join our efforts to pass legislation mandating the review of sentences of incarcerated individuals over the age of 55 who have served in excess of 15 years to determine if they warrant release? The legislation is commonly known as the New York Elder Parole Bill.
I have supported this bill since my time in the city council and continue to do so.
15. Do you oppose the death penalty?
Yes.
16. Do you support outlawing solitary confinement?
Yes.
17. Do you commit to visit constituents who are incarcerated? Will you work to secure the release of individuals who have demonstrated sincere remorse, worked toward rehabilitation and are not deemed a threat to society?
Yes and yes.
18. Do you commit to working to change our penal system toward a restorative rather than a retributive model of justice?
Yes, 100%. I have been committed to transforming our penal system throughout my entire career. I have been a strong advocate for restorative justice, recognizing the need for a shift away from a retributive model. As the primary sponsor of the Right to Know Act and an early supporter of the Close Rikers movement, I have consistently pushed for reforms that prioritize rehabilitation, community support, and alternatives to incarceration. I will continue to fight for policies that build a fairer, more just system that focuses on healing and restoration rather than punishment.
19. Do you commit to make applications for clemencies available to your constituency including a link to an application in a constituent newsletter? Will you submit it to our club?
I would love to have a conversation about the best ways to build capacity for this to be as effective as possible and collaborate with your club to make it a reality. I believe in ensuring that all individuals have access to the tools and information needed to pursue justice, and clemency is a critical part of that.
20. . Who did you support for mayor in the 2021 Democratic primary election?
I did not formally endorse anyone.
21. Which 2025 Democratic candidates have you removed from your consideration? Have you endorsed anyone? If so, who?
I have been very public about the fact that I will not be ranking Andrew Cuomo. I have committed to ranking Brad Lander as my #1 candidate and have also expressed support for Zohran Mamdani and Adrienne Adams as part of a slate endorsement.
22. Do you support the renaming of the Ed Koch bridge and will you work towards the renaming including sponsoring such legislation?
Yes, of course.
23. What are your plans to address rent affordability in NYC? Did you vote for “City of Yes”? If not, please explain.
Addressing rent affordability is central to my vision for a more equitable and livable Brooklyn. That’s why I developed the Comprehensive Plan for Brooklyn—a roadmap for equitable growth with over 200 recommendations to ensure development benefits everyone, not just the wealthy. I’ve championed policies like City of Yes and the expansion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to responsibly increase our housing supply, while opposing downzonings that restrict production and drive up costs. I’ve also hosted legal clinics to protect older homeowners from deed theft and scams, and I’ll
continue that work by launching a Tangled Title Fund and expanding estate planning resources to help families protect their homes.
Looking ahead, I will continue to expand affordable and supportive housing, strengthen tenant protections through Tenant’s Rights Forums and legal aid, and fight displacement by ensuring renters have the tools and support they need to stay in their homes.
Through thoughtful planning, targeted investments, and bold tenant advocacy, I’ll continue working to make Brooklyn a place where everyone can afford to live and thrive.
24. What are your plans regarding short-term housing?
I do not support short-term housing. Companies like Airbnb are among the biggest threats to affordability in New York City—they take units off the market, drive up housing costs, and contribute to the record low vacancy rates we’re facing. We need to prioritize housing for people who live and work in our communities, not for tourists or profit-driven platforms. I will continue to support strong enforcement against illegal short-term rentals and push for policies that return those units to the long-term housing market, where they belong.
25. Do you support fully divesting city pension funds from Tesla?
Yes.
26. Based upon your life experiences and accomplishments, why should we believe you would be a dynamic and progressive voice in elected office?
Brooklyn is the borough of opportunity—powered by its diversity, resilience, and the strength of its people. But today, too many of our communities are being left behind, facing rising rents, public safety approaches rooted in criminalization rather than prevention, and an economy that isn't working for everyone. That’s why I’ve dedicated my career—and my time as Borough President—to building a Brooklyn for all. I’ve delivered deeply affordable housing, fought for better maternal health outcomes, advanced environmental justice, and expanded alternatives to incarceration, all with a focus on uplifting working-class communities and communities of color.
I’m running for re-election because I believe bold, principled leadership is what this moment demands. At a time when many feel disillusioned with politics, I’ve stayed focused on using every tool available to improve people’s lives. My track record proves that I don’t just talk about progressive change—I deliver it. That’s what makes me a dynamic and progressive voice in elected office, and that’s the kind of leadership I’ll continue to bring for Brooklyn.
27. What additional information would you like the Jim Owles club to consider when we are making our endorsement decision?
I hope the Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club will consider not only my track record of delivering progressive results, but also my deep-rooted commitment to equity, justice, and community empowerment. As Borough President, I’ve fought for affordable housing, protected immigrant communities, advanced public health, and fought for a more just city. I’ve stood firmly with the LGBTQ+ community, supported reproductive rights, and used my platform to call out injustice—whether it comes from City Hall or the White House.
For my re-election campaign I am committed to expanding my base of support well beyond what I had in 2021 when I was first elected. I know your club’s support signals alignment with a bold, people-first vision for New York. I would be honored to have your endorsement as I continue building “a Brooklyn for all”.
28. Are you a potential candidate for City Council speaker in the upcoming term? If so, what is your platform?
N/A