Benjamin, Michaels, Alvarez & Blake: The 79th Assembly District

Former Assemblyman Michael Benjamin

As every Bronxite political junkie, even novice, know by now, former Assemblyman Eric Stevenson was convicted and immediately removed from his seat in the 79th Assembly District, which covers the Morrisania and East Tremont sections of the Bronx. So yes, another Bronx politician is found guilty of corruption and has earned the title of disgraced and convicted.

George Alvarez for State Assembly Facebook Page

That being said, who will run for the 79th AD (whenever the Governor decides to call an election) which may not happen until September primaries? Numerous respected names have been floated around such as former Assemblyman Michael Benjamin, who has recently moved back to the district;    attorney Marsha Michaels (no link found), political consultant George Alvarez and last but not least, Michael Blake, former Obama campaign operative and White House staffer from 2009-2011.

Alvarez, while relatively an unknown in the community, might pull the Latino votes and could be a key player in the outcome of the race. Whoever wants to have a serious opportunity of winning, should be reaching out to Alvares. Although we suspect Bronx Party Boss Carl Heastie will, if he has not done so already, be reaching out and ... 'work it out'.

While all the possible candidates seem to be well-respected and each have its own merits and accomplishments, our bet is on Blake, who will help the Bronx Democratic Party's reputation, especially after the De Blasio and Mark-Viverito's horrendous and embarrassing campaigns. Blake is highly regarded given his on-the-ground work while in the White House. His campaign would also bring some needed fresh air to the residents of the 79th.


Bronx Dem Chair Heastie definitely has his work cut out for him and his District Leaders.