With Only Days To Go, Sharpton Endorses Ferrer In Democratic Primary

ny1.newsx.cc

With Only Days To Go, Sharpton Endorses Ferrer In Democratic Primary
09/11/2005 12:09 PM
By: NY1 News

In an eleventh-hour endorsement, the Reverend Al Sharpton threw his support behind Fernando Ferrer in the race for mayor this weekend.

Sharpton lunched with Ferrer Sunday in Harlem, where he praised what he called Ferrer's "proven track record."

Although he noted that the 9/11 anniversary was not a time for politics, Ferrer said he was happy to have Sharpton's support.

"As you can imagine, I'm extraordinarily pleased to get Reverend Sharpton's endorsement and help," the former Bronx Borough President said.

Sharpton told NY1's Dominic Carter Saturday that New York City needs a mayor who can be strong in the face of tragedy, and that Ferrer fits the bill.

"We need a mayor that's strong enough to bring us through 9/11 but compassionate enough that if Katrina hits he'll make sure that poor people aren't the scapegoats of a natural disaster," Sharpton said. "I've been disturbed by some things he's done, but his overall record has warranted support.

"As his work this week with the victims of Hurricane Katrina shows, we share a conviction for standing up for the most vulnerable — which here in New York means building a city that works for everyone," Ferrer said in response to Sharpton's decision. "I look forward to campaigning with him."

"It seems like the Democratic primary is winding down to him and Mr. Weiner," Sharpton said Saturday of Ferrer and Congressman Anthony Weiner. "I think that Mr. Weiner has performed well in the debates, but I can't forget that he is a pro-Iraq War Democrat."