QUEENS, NY – New York City Council Member Ben Kallos, one of the body’s leading good-government advocates, on February 19 announced that he is endorsing Costa Constantinides as the progressive choice for Queens Borough President.

“I have been friends with Costa for many years and have always admired his dedication to this City,” said Council Member Kallos, who represents the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island. “He’s been one of the smartest, honest, and thoughtful people I’ve served with in the City Council. I am proud to stand with him in protecting union jobs, putting forth a plan for a Renewable Rikers, and recognizing the climate threat our communities face.”

“We are seeing growing support for our movement to Transform Queens,” said Costa Constantinides, progressive Democrat for Queens Borough President. “I am honored to have the support of Ben, someone who’s relentlessly fought for an honest government that works for the people.”

Kallos and Constantinides have served in the New York City Council together since January 2014. Together, they have fought for more funding to after-school programs and legislated some of the most aggressive climate policies in the nation. As members whose neighboring districts are separated by the East River, they have sought to improve connectivity and livability between their boroughs.

Their legislative accomplishments include declaring a historic climate emergency in the City of New York last summer, introducing a resolution in support of the #CountMeIn movement, and pushing forth a plan for a Renewable Rikers Island. They were among the first Council Members to push for New York City to divest from the coal industry in a ground-breaking effort other municipalities and states have since followed.

Kallos has been one of New York City’s advocates for honest, fair, and efficient government services. In his former role as the Governmental Operations Committee Chair, Kallos sought to reduce Big Money’s influence on elections. Today, as the Contracts Committee Chair, he continues to ensure government services are reliable, efficient, and don’t waste vital public funds.

Costa Constantinides currently serves in the New York City Council, where he represents western Queens and chairs the Committee on Environmental Protection. His legislative accomplishments include the Climate Mobilization Act, a Green New Deal for New York City, as well as the historic 80% reduction by 2050 of carbon emissions commitment. Costa lives in his native Astoria with his wife and son.

For more information, visit: www.votecosta.com.