By Jessica Easthope
The fate of New York City is in the hands of these voters – and it’s a responsibility they don’t take lightly.
“I grew up my life in this parish and it’s so bad, it’s important to get out and vote,” said Patricia McLaughlin.
“I’m just trying to find a mayor that’s going to care about New York, not themselves,” Sabine Fuentes said.
The race for the city’s new mayor has been hotly contested as voters decide between two very different frontrunners: Republican and Guardian Angels founder, Curtis Sliwa and Democrat former NYPD officer and Brooklyn Borough President, Eric Adams. The men hold opposing views on almost every issue. Both, however, have vowed to crack down on crime.
There has been a nearly 21 percent increase in gun arrests in 2021 and in September overall crime was up 2.6 percent compared to 2020. Felony assaults were up 18.5 percent.
For those who say crime is their number-one issue, Sliwa has their vote.
“I thought Adams would be a continuation of the de Blasio administration,” said Edward McGarrity.
“He knows what the city has gone through, he was around at the time when it was very bad,” said Patricia McLaughlin.
“If I’m going to vote for someone who’s really strong on it, it’s Sliwa,” Richard Nieves said.
And what’s also indirectly affected by crime – New York City traffic. More than 70 billion dollars has been allocated for infrastructure repairs but delays have commuters bumper-to-bumper.
“Where did all that money go for infrastructure? Now with the BQE, it’s down to two lanes. It takes you three hours to get home,” McLaughlin said.
And some say who would want to feel unsafe taking mass transit?
“We’ve liked stepped back in time 40 years ago,” said McGarrity referring to crime numbers from the 1980s.
“People are scared to take the subway, people are scared of everything, you need to take care of the homeless problem this is New York City,” said Fuentes.
But voters said during campaign season they’ve been paying close attention to the energy the candidates have and what they’re willing to fight for.
“I like the passion and you can tell Sliwa loves New York City so much,” Nieves said.
But those voting for Eric Adams says it’s his calm and reserve that won them over.
“It just seems hectic right now and we just need calm and someone who can bring assurance to the citizens,” said Lupita DeLeon.
And others just don’t know yet.
“Only time will tell,” said Fuentes. “People thought de Blasio was going to be a great mayor too.”
For voters, it might come down to pure attitude and how each candidate approached their campaign and it doesn’t get any more New York than that. Polls across the city close Tuesday at 9 p.m.