SENATOR THOMPSON ON SCHNEIDERMAN: “THE PROGRESSIVE LEADER WE NEED”

NYS Senator Antoine Thompson endorsed State Senator Eric Schneiderman for the Democratic nomnation for Attorney General of the State of New York on Monday. The Senator praised his colleague for his courage as an advocate for progressive causes.

“I don’t think I’ve ever told Eric this, but I’ve admired him for years for his courage in being willing to speak out for issues such as access to quality health care and a living wage for all New Yorkers,” he said. “Eric Schneiderman is the progressive leader we need to deliver justice as our next Attorney General. With his long record as an attorney, lawmaker, and advocate, Eric has proven that he will work hard for New Yorkers from every corner of this state.”

When it came time for Senator Schneiderman to speak, he characterized his career in public office as an extension of what he was already doing as a citizen activist and attorney.

“I have always been an advocate for universal health care for all and for equal justice for all and I’m still an advocate for those things today,” he said.. “One thing I’ve never been is a supporter of the status quo. Instead, I have always challenged the status quo on behalf of the interests of all of us.”

“Also I have never been afraid to take chances if I believe that something is the right thing to do,” he continued. “For example, I took the chairmanship of the committe that looked into issues related to former Senator Hiram Monserrate, even though people told me that was political suicide. I’ve always been the kind of public servant who walks the walk, rather than just talking the talk.”