James Endorses Bichotte For Assembly [CORRECTED]

Rodneyse Bichotte, candidate for the 42nd Assembly District seat currently held by Rhoda Jacobs, received a key endorsement from New York City Public Advocate Letitia James Thursday.

Bichotte, a state committeewoman and district leader, is running for the seat for a second time after failing to oust longtime Assemblywoman Jacobs in 2012.

“As the New York City Public Advocate, I need a partner in the Assembly who fights for working families and takes on the growing economic inequality in our city,” James said in a statement. “Rodneyse Bichotte will be that partner. I'm pleased to endorse Rodneyse so we can continue to work together on improving our school, creating jobs that uplift New Yorkers from poverty and building a New York City that works for all.”

James is the second New York City elected official in as many weeks to back Bichotte. City Councilman Jumaane Williams announced his support for Bichotte last week.

“I am particularly honored by this endorsement. It means a great deal to me,” Bichotte said. “Public Advocate James has blazed an incredible trail. I am continuously inspired by her passion, dedication, and commitment to the issues confronting women, and other vulnerable populations that often find themselves without a voice. As, the assemblywoman of Brooklyn's 42nd, I will continue to use my voice to amplify these issues.”

Jacobs has been said to be eyeing retirement, and Thursday afternoon she said an official announcement about her future is planned for next week.

In a phone interview, Jacobs talked up L. Rickie Tulloch, the deputy chief financial officer of Harlem Hospital Center, a longtime Jacobs supporter and the chair of her community advisory council. She said Tulloch knows healthcare related finances very well. That’s an area Jacobs knows as a member of both the Assembly Health and Insurance committees.

Last month, James endorsed 76th Assembly District candidate Rebecca Seawright, who is looking to fill the seat currently held by Assemblyman Micah Kellner, who will not seek re-election.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that James’ endorsement of Bichotte was the public advocate’s first since taking office. That has been corrected and the article has been updated to include information about James’ endorsement of Rebecca Seawright.