Espaillat Adds National Action Network Field Director to Congressional Campaign Team
ROSS BARKAN
State Senator Adriano Espaillat has tapped the National Action Network’s national field director to join his campaign as a senior adviser, adding another high-profile weapon to his repeat bid to unseat Congressman Charlie Rangel.
LaMon Bland, who oversaw the expansion of the Rev. Al Sharpton-led organization, was brought on to boost Mr. Espaillat’s reach into Mr. Rangel’s base in Manhattan, sources say.
“Adriano Espaillat is building an inclusive coalition to unite our district, and I am excited to join his campaign,” Mr. Bland said in a statement to Politicker. “From fighting for low-income tenants and affordable housing, to speaking out against stop and frisk and civil rights abuses, Adriano has a proven record that resonates with Washington Heights and Harlem voters alike.”
The NAN hire adds further intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a highly competitive race. Also in the running is Rev. Mike Walrond, a top NAN staffer and a close associate of Mr. Sharpton. A power broker in the heavily African-American portions of the northern Manhattan and Bronx district, Mr. Sharpton’s endorsement is highly sought after. Mr. Sharpton has yet to indicate who he will ultimately favor.
http://politicker.com/2014/03/espaillat-adds-nan-field-director-to-congressional-campaign-team/
