Labor Unions Back Raga, Mamdani Endorses Kawas in Queens Senate Race

QUEENS, N.Y. - The race for New York's 12th State Senate District is intensifying as Assemblymember Steven Raga and community organizer Aber Kawas showcase competing visions for Queens voters ahead of the June 23 Democratic primary.

Raga recently secured endorsements from seven major labor unions, including the New York State AFL-CIO, District Council 37, New York State United Teachers, and the New York State Nurses Association, further strengthening his position as the labor-backed candidate in the race.

"When my mother joined a union, it changed our lives," Raga said. "In the State Senate, I will continue to advocate for fair wages, stronger workplace protections, and dignity for all New Yorkers."

Meanwhile, Kawas has gained the endorsement of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and is campaigning on a platform focused on affordability, immigrant rights, and taxing the wealthy to fund public programs.

"The top issue facing voters is affordability," Kawas said, proposing investments in universal childcare, free public transit, universal healthcare, social housing, and expanded rent protections.

Kawas, a longtime community organizer, said she is running to challenge the political establishment and bring grassroots organizing into government.

The 12th Senate District includes Astoria, Long Island City, Sunnyside, and parts of Woodside, Maspeth, Ridgewood, and Woodhaven. Early voting runs from June 13 to June 21, with Election Day on June 23.