As a lifelong resident of District 30, a moderate Democrat, and someone who has spent decades fighting for our neighborhoods, I don’t give out endorsements lightly. I believe they should be earned through hard work, integrity, and a demonstrated commitment to the people—not by slick campaign slogans or inflated résumés. That’s why I’m proud to endorse Phil Wong in the Democratic primary for City Council.

Phil has been an invaluable part of my office, serving as both Budget Director and Constituent Services Liaison. In these roles, he has helped countless residents navigate the bureaucracy of city government—whether it’s resolving a quality-of-life issue, getting services restored, or simply ensuring that their voices are heard. He’s worked directly with our local organizations to secure funding for schools, parks, senior centers, youth programs, and community nonprofits—delivering real results that have made a tangible difference in people’s lives.

What sets Phil apart is that he does all this work quietly, without fanfare, without taking credit, and with no personal gain in mind. He sacrifices his evenings and weekends, time he could be spending with his wife and children, to show up and serve the community. He has never once asked what’s in it for him. His work ethic and humility are rare in today’s political world.

Before joining my staff, I knew Phil as a civic leader who co-founded Elmhurst United during a time of crisis. He’s been a steadfast advocate for his community and a member of the Juniper Park Civic Association and other local groups. He’s also a small business owner of 15 years, so he understands firsthand the challenges our local businesses face every day. He didn’t wait for permission or a title—he saw something wrong and stepped up. That’s the kind of leadership we need.

Phil has stood side by side with me in nearly every major fight I’ve taken on. He joined the lawsuits against the City of Yes, opposed congestion pricing, stop non-citizens from voting, and protested bail reform that has made our streets less safe. He was also one of the earliest voices against the misguided plan from former Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council to strip school safety agents from our schools. Unlike others, Phil didn’t wait to see which way the political winds were blowing—he acted.

As President of Community Education Council District 24, Phil fought relentlessly to ensure our schools had the resources they needed. He stood up to efforts to eliminate the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test, advocated for the expansion of Gifted and Talented programs, and helped bring dual-language programs —including Polish — to our public schools. His commitment to education isn’t abstract—his three children attended public schools right here in the district, and he is a proud product of PS 102, IS 73, Jamaica High School, and Cornell University.

And while some candidates in this race support misguided plans like hardened bike lanes on Eliot Avenue and Metropolitan Avenue—plans that would eliminate critical parking and choke our streets and small businesses—Phil has stood firmly with the community in opposing them. He understands the needs of working families, seniors, and small businesses that rely on street access. He listens, and more importantly, he acts.
Phil doesn’t need to lie about his background, pad his résumé, or take credit for things he didn’t do. He’s been in the trenches, shoulder to shoulder with me, from day one. That’s why he’s the only Democrat in this race who has earned my endorsement.

This June, I urge every Democrat in District 30 to vote for Phil Wong. He’s not a career politician. He’s one of us — and he’ll never stop fighting for you.