Dear NYSNA Member,

NYSNA has never endorsed a candidate for Mayor in the NYC primaries — until now. For the first time in our history, the NYSNA Board of Directors unanimously voted to endorse Bill de Blasio to be New York City’s next mayor. 

As an ER nurse myself, I can say Bill de Blasio is like one of us. Since the hospital crisis began, we’ve seen what makes him different from the other candidates. He knows what needs to be done to save a patient’s life; that there’s no time for politics or platitudes, only for immediate action. Bill has taken that action again and again.

Under our current Mayor, HHC nurses have gone for years without a contract or the respect we deserve. In the last decade twelve New York City hospitals have closed, and that number could rise to as many as 16 before Bloomberg’s term ends. Just last week, the Labor and Delivery unit at HHC’s North Central Bronx Hospital – where more than 1,500 babies were delivered last year – was shut down.

Bill de Blasio has done more than anyone else to protect care for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. He has led rallies, gone to court, and even been to jail to keep hospitals open.

He has redefined the role of public advocate and fought for those who don’t have money, power, or infl uence in City Hall. Bill is committed to a New York where everyone has access to quality care, no matter where they live, no matter what they can pay. That’s the kind of mayor we need.

The primary election is less than a week away. We can elect Bill de Blasio if we vote, and encourage our friends and co-workers to vote. I hope you will join me in voting on September 10th for Bill de Blasio and all the candidates who have tirelessly supported patients and nurses.

In solidarity,
JILL FURILLO, RN NYSNA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR