Elections November 2018
Who Calls for Justice?
Justice and Unity for the Southern Tier
Justice and Unity for the Southern Tier (JUST) is a non-partisan community group. We don’t endorse candidates. Yet we would be negligent if we did not highlight electoral races where issues of justice appear most seriously. In some key cases there are no contests this November. State Senator Akshar most notably stands unopposed. He has consistently opposed criminal justice reform and advanced greater funding of local jails, policing, and the criminalization of poor and Black populations.
There are however two contested races of note in our local area.
Sheriff’s race: David Harder (R) vs. Matt Ryan (Working Families)
As we have often noted and protested, the county jail is a site of medical abuse, excessive death, racial inequities, and a massive drain on the county budget. Sheriff Harder rejects these charges as can be seen in campaign statements and interviews. Matt Ryan, the previous mayor of Binghamton, promises in his statements to change the administration of the jail, its medical services, and support substantive alternatives in the community for those with mental health and substance use disorders. There is clear marked contrast in this race.
Governor’s race: Andrew Cuomo (D) vs. Marc Molinaro (R) vs. Larry Sharpe (Libertarian) vs. Howie Hawkins (Green)
Many advocates for criminal justice reform have been deeply disappointed by the lack of support from Governor Cuomo and the stifling of reform bills through the Governor’s relations with conservative State Senators. Republican Marc Molinaro would impose even harsher penalties and parole than exist today, and accelerate mass incarceration. Libertarian candidate Larry Sharpe supports shrinking the carceral state and expanded social services on fiscal grounds, and for similar reasons supports the use of yet more e-shackles. Green candidate Howie Hawkins offers a contrast, with carefully considered positions on bail, speedy trial, parole and related key reform measures. He has made these signature items in his campaign, including his statements during his appearance in Binghamton.