The question is whether Gioia's money and energy—one observer likened him to an "Energizer Bunny"—will be enough to defeat de Blasio's growing list of endorsements, Green's name recognition and Siegel's dedicated following among progressives. Another question is how the mayoral race, or lack thereof, affects the September 15th primary. Gioia has little to say about Bloomberg: Asked what he thinks of the mayor's record, Gioia only says, "What's refreshing about him is he's not beholden to any special interest. I think as public advocate you have to have the independence to stand up to him but also the confidence to work with him."
Running to replace Gioia in his 26th District Council seat are Deirdre Feerick, an attorney who works for the city; Brent O'Leary, a lawyer for Bloomberg LP; David Rosasco, a businessman; and James Van Bramer, a Queens Library official.
This is the third in a series of articles about the race for public advocate. Next issue: former public advocate Mark Green.
