Brian Cunningham is a son of Brooklyn running to represent the 43rd State Assembly district.

Jelanie DeShong is also Brooklyn-made and also seeking the seat, which was previously held by Diana Richardson, the current deputy borough president.

In the March 22 special election to represent the district that includes Crown Heights, Prospect Lefferts Gardens and Flatbush, two candidates have their share of backing from influential Brooklyn political leaders.

For DeShong, who worked in Gov. Hochul’s administration, the list includes Richardson, Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Sen. Zellnor Myrie, D-NY and Rep. Yvette Clarke, D-NY. 

What You Need To Know

  • Three candidates on ballot for special election where early voting begins March 22

  • The 43rd State Assembly district includes Crown Heights, Prospect Lefferts Gardens and Flatbush

  • Cunningham, DeShong both a visible presence on campaign trail in Brooklyn

“Six years ago, this community elected Diana Richardson as a Working Families Party candidate, a true independent advocate for the community, and that’s what I’m looking to continue,” DeShong told NY1.

DeShong had sought the Democratic Party line. But it was Cunningham who secured the backing of the powerful Kings County Democratic Party.

The process included the contentious use of many proxy votes.

Cunningham, a nonprofit director, also is endorsed by Sen. Kevin Parker, D-NY, City Council Member Rita Joseph and former Council Member Robert Cornegy.

“I think what differentiates me in this race is just a longer body of work,” Cunningham said. “I’m someone who’s worked in the New York City Council. I actually started my career working in the State Legislature as a special assistant.”

Both candidates said they’d be beholden to no one but constituents.

Cunningham said: “Over the last few years, I’ve demonstrated a clear level of independence.”

DeShong said: “I think most important is independence, what we saw through the county committee process was a process that was undemocratic.”

Republican candidate Mesidor Azor declined to be interviewed on camera by NY1.

In a statement, he said voters should know they have a choice in a “largely one-party-ruled town that has not served this community or city well on important issues, including crime, cost of living, quality of life, homelessness, stripping school choice and anti-business environment.”

Cunningham told NY1, “This race is really about, I think, people in this neighborhood who’ve lived here all their lives who are being priced out of this neighborhood.”

“People just care about being safe in their community,” DeShong said. “Also they care about paying their bills. That’s really what it comes down to. Make sure their children have good quality education.”

The victor must compete in a June primary if they seek a full term.