Today, alongside Harlem legends and community members, Jordan J.G. Wright, a fourth-generation Harlemite – son of former Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright and grandson of the late Judge “Turn ‘Em Loose” Bruce Wright – announced his candidacy to become the Democratic nominee for the New York State Assembly’s 70th District.
Jordan’s father served in the Assembly for decades and was known for being a deal maker who stood up for the people of Harlem; his grandfather was famous for fighting against punitive bail practices as early as the 1970’s.
Jordan is a lifelong resident of Harlem who has served on the Community Board for multiple years before successfully managing Exonerated Central Park 5 member, Councilman Yusef Salaam’s historic campaign to bring change to Harlem. He is running for office to bring forward the next era of prosperity in the community by bridging the gap between the historic legacy of the past and the opportunities of tomorrow – a New Harlem Renaissance.
“As I think about what the next generation of progress in our community looks like, I think about One Harlem. One Harlem that works collectively to make our community more affordable and opportunities more accessible. One Harlem that understands that Black representation is necessary in the halls of Albany where so many important decisions are made. One Harlem that recognizes this unique moment in history and collaborates to achieve the greatness we’ve always displayed. One Harlem that truly believes that together we can change the world.”
Jordan’s platform includes creating and preserving housing that is truly affordable and accessible, protecting tenants, expanding pathways to quality careers – particularly those in the clean energy sector, providing resources and opportunities for small businesses to thrive, increasing the prevalence of quality schools in our community, protecting Harlem’s cultural integrity, and developing a public safety framework that balances the role of law enforcement with the dignity and respect that we all deserve.
The campaign announcement was bolstered by endorsements from key Harlem leaders including Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens and former Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright, the district’s current and previous representatives respectively.
“I’ve watched Jordan show up for our community his entire life. He is one of the hardest workers I know and a shining example of what the next generation of leadership should strive to display. Like our country, Harlem is at a crossroad and we must decide who we are as a people and what we value in our community. Jordan understands the gravity of the moment from his lived experiences and knows what needs to get done together – as one Harlem – to restore the greatness of our village. As my tenure in elected office comes to an end, I am comforted to know that my beloved community will be cared for by someone who has the integrity and work ethic to lead in the halls of Albany, as we lean on the next generation to facilitate the new Harlem Renaissance of opportunity, equity and justice,” said Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens.
Jordan’s father, former Assemblyman, Keith L.T. Wright said, “The future of Harlem relies on those willing to step up and do the hard work of caring for our community. The future of Harlem relies on listening for the problems, and getting your hands dirty to bring about solutions. We do that by working together, young and old — as One Harlem. So today, I could not be prouder to support a man who has always rolled up his sleeves to do the hard work for the village that raised him – no questions asked. Jordan J.G. Wright has earned the trust of our community, and will serve us all well as the next Assemblyman for the 70th District.”
Although he could not be present, Jordan was also endorsed by Exonerated member of the Central Park 5, Councilman Yusef Salaam who stated, “I’ve had the privilege of watching Jordan first hand do the work of the people – for the people. His dedication to ensuring we progress unified as one Harlem is unmatched. We’ve spent countless hours together talking to our neighbors, figuring out ways to turn their pain in to progress, and working with other key stakeholders to get the work done. I proudly endorse his candidacy for Assembly and look forward to having a trusted partner in Albany who I know will always prioritize the needs of the people.”
Senator Cordell Cleare who represents Harlem in New York’s upper state house also endorsed Jordan. “Harlem needs fighters who will bring progressive values to the state capitol and demand we take action to address the fundamental needs of our community. Jordan truly understands the pain our people are feeling and will be a great partner in Albany as we tackle these issues. I proudly endorse his candidacy for Assembly, and look forward to working together as one Harlem to bring holistic change and resources to our neighborhood”, said the Senator.
Assemblyman Al Taylor who represents northern Harlem noted, “as we look toward the future of our community, it is important that we are aligned in priority and principles as one Harlem. Solidarity amongst our community’s representatives is imperative to restoring the vibrancy that made our community world renown.
I have no doubt that Jordan will work alongside me in Albany to reinvigorate our neighborhoods and fight for our people. He brings a fresh perspective to Albany and will bridge the gap between the legacy of the past and the promise of tomorrow.”
In addition to the current and former local elected supporters, Jordan was flanked by former federal and statewide elected officials who also endorsed his candidacy.
Former Congressman Charlie Rangel said, “During my decades in public office, I’ve seen countless numbers of young people who are brilliant, hardworking and dedicated to servant leadership. Not only does Jordan exude those qualities, he also has the compassion and integrity necessary to lead Harlem to its next generation of greatness. He is, and has always been, a true son of the Village and I could not think of a better person to represent us in Albany. I am proud to endorse his run for Assembly and look forward to watching him show the world what we already know here in Harlem.”
Former Governor David Paterson noted, “Jordan has an unmatched work ethic that drives him to do all that he can for our Village. He will be a great asset to our community and his colleagues during the long hours of budget negotiations and floor debates. I proudly endorse him and look forward to seeing how he translates his natural abilities into results for New York.”
“Jordan understands the value of education and how it gives our people the opportunity to determine their own destiny. He bring a fresh perspective to generational problems and has the expertise and experience to put forth bold solutions. He is exactly what Harlem needs right now and I enthusiastically endorse him to be the next Assemblyman from the 7oth District,” said Former Comptroller and SUNY Board Chair H. Carl McCall.
Jordan was also endorsed by a number of community stalwarts including: District Leaders William Allen, Wilma Brown-Phillips, Mariama James, and Ron Thomas, State Committee Member Londel Davis, Jackie Rowe-Adams, and others.
