Senator Schumer Endorses Congressman Meeks

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer

"Greg Meeks is One of the Most Thoughtful, Energetic and Reliable Members of the House of Representatives"

New York, N. Y. - Senator Charles Schumer announced today that he has endorsed Congressman Gregory Meeks in the June 26 Democratic primary for the Fifth Congressional District, a newly-drawn district that covers Southeast Queens, including the entire Rockaway Peninsula, and parts of Nassau County. 

Senator Schumer, who is one of the most influential members of the United States Senate, said, "Greg Meeks is one of the most thoughtful, energetic and reliable members of the House of Representatives."

As an example the senator cited Meeks's role as a member of the conference committee that drafted the most far-reaching reforms of the financial services industry in 80 years.  

"Meeks helped fashion a number of key compromises that facilitated passage of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act,” said Schumer.

Senator Schumer added that in voting for the deficit reduction legislation that enabled the United States to avert default last August the seven-term Congressman displayed the kind of independence of thought, far-sighted decision-making, and courage that Congress badly needs if it is to break free of gridlock and get things done for the American people.  

 Congressman Gregory Meeks

Meeks, a senior member of the House Financial Services and House Foreign Affairs Committees and the ranking member of the Europe and Eurasia Subcommittee, said he is, "Deeply honored to have Senator Charles Schumer's endorsement.” 

Congressman Meeks emphasized that he and Senator Schumer have worked together for nearly 20 years on issues crucial to New Yorkers and all Americans.  They have also partnered many times to work on local issues that matter to Queens residents.  

Schumer and Meeks successfully challenged the US Department of Veterans Affairs shortsighted plan for private development at the St. Albans Veteran's Facility, instead securing new funding for a VA hospital at the site.  

From making sure that a proposed American Airlines- US Air merger would not cost Queens residents jobs, to protecting Far Rockaway's beaches from erosion, the two leaders have been important allies for Queens communities.

“Senator Schumer is not only a valued colleague whose advice, opinions, political judgment, and legislative skill I greatly admire and respect; he is also a great friend,” Meeks added.  

“I look forward to continuing to work with him to create jobs, bring affordable health care, and protect Medicare, Social Security, and veteran benefits for the people of the Fifth Congressional District, New York State as a whole, and the United States.”