The Brooklyn Democratic Party gathered at Giando on the Water on Oct. 28 for its annual gala, aimed at energizing voters ahead of the upcoming general election.
The event featured a power-packed list of speakers, including New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul and U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and took place just two days after early voting opened citywide.
“The Brooklyn Democratic Party’s Annual Gala energized Brooklynites to get out the vote during one of the most important elections of our lifetime, as we relentlessly work to ensure every vote counts and voice is heard,” Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said. “With Brooklyn leading New York City in Early Voting turnout by a big margin, we’re already witnessing how amplified and eager Brooklynites are to elect Democrats at the voting booth.”
“We deeply thank everyone who supported our Brooklyn Dems gala, which showcased our party’s unity and keeps strengthening support,” she added.
New York’s most prominent Dems, Hochul and Jeffries, delivered speeches Bichotte Hermelyn called “exhilarating,” “rallying to keep Brooklyn, New York, and our nation Blue, flip the U.S. House of Representatives to a Democratic majority, and win the Harris-Walz presidency.”
The gala also served as a chance to recognize unions small businesses and community leaders who are making a massive difference across Brooklyn,” she said.
Unions recognized included TWU Local 100, the NYC District Council of Carpenters, the Mason Tenders District Council, CWA Local 1109, and Teamsters Local 237.
Among the small businesses celebrated were Allan’s Bakery, R.F. Wilkins Consultants, Marine Florists, and ParCare Community Health Network.
Community leaders such as Hon. Joseph Bova, a former district leader; Alan Rocoff; and Jennifer Rappaport were also acknowledged for their impactful work.
Other special guests included U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, Congress Member Una Clarke, New York State Attorney General Letitia James, and New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
“Thanks to the enthusiasm for our Democratic ticket, and especially because of the efforts of organizers getting out the vote, Brooklyn is setting early voting records!” DiNapolo posted to X, formerly Twitter, after the event. “It was an honor to celebrate good work and all things Brooklyn with the @bkdems & Chair @AMBichotte last night!”
