Here's a press release circulated by Pete Gleason's campaign for City Council:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2009
Contact: Jeanne Wilcke, Campaign Manager, rednyc@mac.com
COUNCIL CHALLENGER PETE GLEASON NEARLY TOPPLES INCUMBENT GERSON IN VRDC VOTE
Progressive City Council candidate Pete Gleason surprised insiders and observers by fighting Alan Gerson, [pictured right], to a draw on the first ballot for the Village Reform Democratic Club's endorsement last night. Gerson, an eight-year incumbent Councilmember, longtime member and former President of the VRDC had been expected to win handily.
Pete Gleason, an environmental health, labor and civil rights attorney and retired New York City Firefighter was thrilled with the outcome, telling supporters "It's great to see our message of a history of leadership that gets results picking up steam across the district. Voters I speak to around Lower Manhattan are fed up with City Councilmembers who rest on their laurels instead of delivering the change we need."
In an acrimonious four-hour meeting held in Alan Gerson's lobby the dissatisfaction with his tenure was clear. Club members cited Gerson's ineffective record on constituent services, lack of leadership and his support for term-limits extension as reasons for their defection. In the vote, Pete Gleason and the incumbent each received 16 votes. A third candidate, Margaret Chin received two votes. A run-off ballot was narrowly won by the incumbent.
SoHo Alliance President Sean Sweeney was more direct, saying "Apparently Gerson is running his campaign as he has run his council office: ineptly."
Pete Gleason's campaign indicated they would continue their strategy of reaching out to voters and activists across the district.
Gleason Campaign Manager Jeanne Wilcke stressed the candidate's increasing traction. "This result shows that it's working, and further solidifies Pete Gleason's role as the most viable challenger in the 1st Council District."