Jackson Heights Post: Photos: Queens Pride Parade celebrated in Jackson Heights

June 3, 2024

The Queens Pride parade ran along 37th Avenue, from 89th Street to 75th Street. Numerous community members and leaders took part in the parade, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Assemblymembers Jessica González-Rojas and Catalina Cruz, State Senator Jessica Ramos, grand marshals State Senator Leroy Comrie, Amber Ferrer and Billy Green and several local city council members.

Streets blog nyc: ‘The Moped Crisis’: Bill Doubling Fines For Unauthorized Dealers Passes Senate

June 3, 2024

"[The bill] will help alleviate some of the challenges we see around mopeds,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, who is co-sponsoring the bill in her chamber.

Spectrum news: Lawmakers considering commission to review N.Y. COVID-19 response

May 31, 2024

González-Rojas sponsors the bill that would create the commission, which would have appointees by Democratic and Republican legislative leaders.

Sada Elbalad English: Egyptian Expatriates Call for Better Representation of MENA Communities in US

May 29, 2024

New York Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, State Senator Michael Gianaris, and leaders from groups such as the New York Immigration Coalition and Malikah rallied support for a bill aimed at revamping demographic data collection for Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) residents in New York at the state Capitol.

WENY: A bill to correct inequities in state data

May 28, 2024

“Having that data pulled out by any board, state, commissions, agencies that the state oversees will be vital to making sure that we have the numbers to advocate for the community's needs, so whether its information on health disparities, whether its language access needs, whether its religious or cultural needs of the community,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas (D-Assembly District 34).

The daily news: Learning the truth about COVID in N.Y.

May 28, 2024

In Congress next month, Republicans will question former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and other officials on how New York’s leaders responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. The result will likely be a display of grandstanding and exaggeration, as political opportunists use the hearing to push their own agendas.

Gothamist: Clock ticking for bill to expand healthcare to NY's undocumented immigrants

May 27, 2024

“There's got to be a final push to get it over the finish line,” said Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, who introduced the bill in her chamber. Still, she acknowledged, “at this point, we want to move bills that would have the governor's support.”

Times union: NY lawmakers seek to cap investors' profits from foreign debt

May 24, 2024

State Sen. Liz Krueger and Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, both New York City Democrats, are sponsoring an amended version of a bill that would bolster a complex legal action known as “champerty” that prohibits purchasing securities (such as a cash-strapped country’s sovereign debt, which is often valued cheaply) for the sole purpose of taking those deals to court and recouping much higher profits. 

Spectrum News: New York's 'Mom Squad' sees victories and challenges in state budget

May 22, 2024

“We’ve sort of informally created this Mom Squad to be able to fight for the issues that parents care about in New York state,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas.

Astoria post: Queens lawmakers rally for legislation to improve representation of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) communities

May 22, 2024

At the state Capitol on Wednesday, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, State Senator Michael Gianaris, and leaders from groups such as the New York Immigration Coalition and Malikah rallied support for a bill that seeks to overhaul demographic data collection for Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) residents in New York

NY Post: Queens lawmakers demand more MTA bus service to Manhattan before $15 congestion toll begins

May 16, 2024

Queens lawmakers who voted for the unpopular $15 “congestion” toll to enter parts of Manhattan are demanding that the MTA increase express bus service to their neighboring borough before the new fee is imposed.

EL Nuevo Dia: 16 funcionarios electos boricuas de Nueva York abogan por la inclusión de Puerto Rico en el SNAP

May 15, 2024

La carta, encabezada por la representante estatal Jessica González Rojas, sostiene que “con la expiración y la renovación pendiente de la ley agrícola, este es el vehículo y el momento apropiado para atender el derecho de Puerto Rico a ser incluido en el SNAP y combatir la inseguridad alimentaria en la Isla”.

The capitol press room: New York continues to invest in abortion access

May 9, 2024

May 9, 2024 – Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a Queens Democrat, talks about a $25 million state commitment to expand access to abortion services, including for women from outside New York.

Queens Chronicle: Parents and pols protest illegal smoke shop in Jackson Heights

May 3, 2024

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst) said that not only were the illegal shops putting children at risk, they were also side-stepping the proper laws and taxes that come with opening a legal dispensary. 

QNS: Sammy’s Law passed: Queens leaders hail new legislation enabling NYC to lower speed limits for safer streets

May 1, 2024

Queens Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas and State Senator John Liu joined community advocates Tuesday to celebrate the passage of Sammy’s Law, a legislation that allows for New York City to determine its own speed limits, in the latest New York State budget.

City & state: Here’s what New York elected officials are saying about the Columbia University protests

April 29, 2024

On April 24, Gonzalez-Rojas expressed support for the student protesters. “To protect Democracy we must protect free speech. Solidarity with all the students, faculty, administrators, and activists peacefully protesting for human rights and a ceasefire in Gaza at Columbia, NYU & on all campuses,” she wrote.

The city: Neighborhoods That Most Need Basement Apartment Legalization Left Out of State Pilot

April 29, 2024

Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas (D-Queens), for one, said she is also disappointed in how the program has left out many areas of needs in Queens. She had expressed her support of the new pilot program to her colleagues, she added, and encouraged that her constituents in Astoria, Corona, East Elmhurst and Jackson Heights be included.

qns: Assemblymember González-Rojas praises 2025 fiscal budget for investments in Queens communities

April 26, 2024

Queens Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-34) celebrated the passing of the New York State budget for the 2025 fiscal year, highlighting its inclusion of investments in numerous Queens neighborhoods.

Queens daily eagle: Queens pols and grieving families celebrate passage of Sammy’s Law

April 24, 2024

“I’m elated that we were able to include Sammy’s Law in the state budget,” said Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, herself a victim of traffic violence earlier this year. “As someone who has been hit by a car I know the trauma that this can cause for those of us that may be lucky to walk away from a crash.”

Spectrum News 1: Lawmakers have mixed feelings on issues of affordability, public safety in budget

April 19, 2024

Included in those issues of affordability is one Gonzalez-Rojas has rallied tirelessly for all session: A push to expand free healthy school lunches to all New York students. 

Democrat & Chronicle: NY to declare drug overdoses a state emergency? Lawmakers raise alarm about rising deaths

April 12, 2024

“Every 90 minutes a New Yorker dies a preventable (drug) death,” state Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, D-Queens, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, referring to the April 2 letter. “More can and must be done.”

Queens post: Astoria students learn about drones and green energy jobs at STEM event

April 11, 2024

Gonzalez said Wednesday’s event focused on both STEM and clean energy, adding that it helps place children from underserved communities disproportionately affected by climate change at the center of environmental justice. Gonzalez also said she hopes Wednesday’s event will help create “leaders of the future.” 

Empire report: Let’s Pass a Budget Only Moms Can Deliver

April 4, 2024

The halls of power have not always been open to us. There is no doubt that women are still a minority in the state legislature as we make up only 33% of seats between both the Assembly and Senate.

City & state: Bipartisan group calls on Hochul to declare opioid epidemic a public health emergency

April 4, 2024

A total of 56 state lawmakers from across New York signed onto the letter sent to Hochul, shared with City & State, spearheaded by state Sen. Nathalia Fernandez and Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas.

Spectrum news 1: Mayoral control extension in final state budget unlikely, lawmakers say

April 2, 2024

“It’s something that should be debated outside of the budget, not in the budget. There [are] a lot of reasons why I don’t think we should have mayoral control,” Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a Queens Democrat, told NY1.

Astoria post: Gianaris and González-Rojas rally for MENA Bill recognizing Middle Eastern and North African communities in state data

April 2, 2024

State Sen. Mike Gianaris and Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas joined a number of local advocacy groups to call for support of their proposed legislation that disaggregates Middle Eastern and North African populations from white demographics in state-collected data.

Press republican: Bill would stop police from citing debunked ‘excited delirium’ syndrome

April 1, 2024

Citing a New York Focus report, state Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas introduced a bill last week that would effectively ban public agencies from referencing a largely debunked medical syndrome long used to justify deaths in police custody.

Queens Chronicle: Parents, pols rally for safer streets

March 28, 2024

González-Rojas had a close call of her own when she was struck by a car back in January, coming away with a broken arm.

Spectrum News 1: New York advocates push for emergency declaration, more funding to address substance use disorder

March 26, 2024

State Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, who co-sponsors that copay bill with Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, criticized the governor’s executive budget for leaning heavily on limited opioid settlement funds to offset what critics describe as an otherwise minor increase in spending.

NYSUT: Unions, lawmakers rally for higher education funding in the final state budget

March 26, 2024

Unions and elected officials rally for higher education funding to make it into final budget.

Law.com: Immigration Advocates Say Hike in Legal Services Budget Is Needed to Fix 'Completely Broken' System

March 13, 2023

Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez Rojas, D-Queens, whose father emigrated to New York from Paraguay, and went on to become a professor of aviation at SUNY Farmingdale despite dropping out of high school for lack of understanding of English, said $150 million from a $233 billion proposed state budget was merely a “drop in the bucket.”

City & state: New York’s legislative moms come out against school district funding cuts

March 6, 2024

“But beyond restoring proposed cuts, as a mother I want every child and family in New York to not only survive but thrive,” González-Rojas said.

Spectrum News 1: Conflicting views on mandating minimum wage for tipped workers in N.Y.

February 22, 2024

Legislation currently working its way through the committee process is co-sponsored by state Sen. Robert Jackson and Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas. González-Rojas told Spectrum News 1 that now is the time to make a change.

Telemundo: Trabajadores de Restaurantes Piden Que Les Den Salario Mínimo

February 22, 2024

Restaurant workers ask for minimum wage.

Riverdale press: Should tipped workers get paid minimum wage?

February 22, 2024

“Passing One Fair Wage legislation will strengthen one of New York’s most vulnerable and hardworking workforces,” said Assemblywoman González-Rojas, sponsor of the Assembly’s version of the bill in a press release.

Spectrum News 1: Lawmakers voice concerns over human services funding at budget hearing

February 1, 2024

Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas sponsors legislation to increase the minimum SNAP, or food stamps, benefit available for low-income New Yorkers as some people receive monthly payments of $23.

Spectrum news 1: Major Upstate New York food retailers, health advocates call for SNAP increase

January 31, 2024

The New York State Association for Rural Health and the food retailers outlined their support for legislation sponsored by Syracuse Democratic state Sen. Rachel May and Queens Democratic Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, which would guarantee a monthly SNAP benefit of $100. The legislation currently sits in their respective chamber’s Social Services committees.

News world nation: Community leaders come to Albany

January 30, 2024

Community leaders come to Albany to discuss housing benefits.

Business News: NYC restaurant workers, diners hungry over new rule that would change the way customers tip

January 30, 2024

Restaurant workers and diners on Manhattan's Restaurant Row this week largely supported New York's plan to replace the existing “tip credit” system, which allows eateries to pay wait staff less than minimum wage.

Published reporter: New York State Contemplates Bill Mandating Minimum Wage For Restaurant Staff

January 30, 2024

However, Assembly member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas argues that this system disproportionately affects women of color, who tend to receive lower tips than white men, leading to inequities in compensation. 

New York Post: NYC restaurant workers, diners hungry for new rule that would change how customers tip

January 30, 2024

But a proposed law pushed by Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas (D-Queens) and Sen. Robert Jackson (D-Manhattan) would abolish the credit, shifting how much workers rely on tips — and also reshaping what percentage constitutes a good tip, according to New Yorkers and tourists.

cbs6: Call for universal free meals in New York schools amidst ongoing child hunger crisis

January 29, 2024

ALBANY, NY (WRGB) Lawmakers and advocates are asking New York Governor Kathy Hochul to make sure all students in New York are well-fed.

Spectrum news 1: Restaurants react to bill that could raise wages

January 29, 2024

“In an industry where there’s a lot of inequities, we need to make sure we raise the floor for everybody. Again, the minimum wage is not a tremendous amount of wealth. It’s sort of the bare minimum and this on top for good service,” González-Rojas said.

ABC 7: Extra Time: Restaurant tipping; putting a stop to AI deepfakes

January 29, 2024

There's a proposal to force owners to raise restaurant workers' wages to the minimum wage. Owners say raising the minimum wage will be unfair to them.

Spectrum news 1: In show of bipartisan support, N.Y. lawmakers join advocates to push for universal free school meals

January 29, 2024

“We know it is low-income children who are most impacted, but they exist across every neighborhood across New York state,” said Queens Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas. 

abc7: Survey finds most NYC restaurant owners want to keep tip credit system, despite push for new bill

January 29, 2024

Assembly member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas said Monday she wants better for those who work in the service industry and is co-sponsoring a bill to do just that.

Patch: Tipping Law Will Be 'Disaster,' NYC Restaurant Owners Say

January 29, 2024

The survey comes as state Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and state Sen. Robert Jackson pushed legislation to end the tip credit and pay restaurant workers at least the minimum wage.

New york post: Send Albany’s rotten restaurant tipping rule back to the kitchen

January 29, 2024

That is, the owners themselves: 95% of them oppose the push from Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas (D-Queens) and Sen. Robert Jackson (D-Manhattan), per a survey released Monday.

Queens eagle: Local pols want G train restored to former Queens glory

January 29, 2024

Several Queens and Brooklyn elected officials are calling on the MTA to consider running the G train along its former route, deeper into Queens, now that the transit authority has announced plans to do work on the line that will likely cause major service disruptions.

ERie news now: Lawmakers rally in Albany for universal school meals

January 29, 2024

“We’re demanding full universal school meals for every single child here in New York state,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas (D-Assembly District 34).

New york post: NY restaurant owners say messing with rules on tipping will mean higher menu prices, possible layoffs: survey

January 28, 2024

The Hospitality Alliance opposes legislation pushed by Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas (D-Queens) and Sen. Robert Jackson (D-Manhattan) that would abolish the “tip credit” and have wait staff paid $17 an hour by 2026 if employed in the city, Long Island and Westchester, and be paid the minimum wage by 2027.

CBs ny: State lawmaker hit by driver in Queens calling for safer streets

January 26, 2024

"I stepped out a few inches, and next thing you know, I'm on the floor," Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas said.

Spectrum News 1: Hochul and lawmakers share proposals for how to best protect crime victims

January 25, 2024

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas said it’s a step in the right direction but not enough. She told Spectrum News 1 that victims of domestic violence, in particular, need to be provided assistance throughout their ordeals and assisted in gaining access to resources that would enable them to get out of that situation.

ABC News 10: Bill aims to increase SNAP benefits for New Yorkers

January 25, 2024

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, helps people with low incomes pay for groceries. Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas says with today’s food prices, more needs to be done to help struggling New Yorkers.

Spectrum news 1: Piden a gobernadora apruebe ley 'Cobertura para Todos' sobre cobertura médica

January 25, 2024

Los activistas y demas le han puesta presión a la gobernadora Hochul para que apruebe una ley llamada “Cobertura para Todos”, patrocinada por el senador estatal de El Bronx Gustavo Rivera y la asambleísta Jessica Gonzales Rojas de Queens, para que se agregue al presupuesto estatal.

Jackson Heights posts: Assemblymember González-Rojas champions CARES act to aid non-citizen crime victims in New York

January 25, 2024

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas and advocates held a rally in Corona Plaza Thursday to draw attention to legislation that she has introduced, that aims to provide assistance to non-citizen victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, and torture.

NYSUT: NYSUT and partners launch One-in-Five campaign to combat cycle of childhood poverty

January 24, 2024

NYSUT and coalition of child, family and community stakeholders today launched their initiative to combat the cycle of childhood poverty.

Street blog nyc: This Year’s Mettle: The Push for Sammy’s Law Begins — With or Without Carl Heastie

January 23, 2024

“I’m glad I’m just a crash statistic and not a death statistic,” González-Rojas told Streetsblog, her arm still in a sling. ​​”I’m glad to be here, but had the car been going faster ... I might not be here.”

Queens Chronicle: González-Rojas hit by car, breaks arm

January 11, 2024

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst) was hit by a car near her home in Jackson Heights last Thursday night, leaving her with bruises across her face and a broken arm, which may need to be surgically repaired.

Queens daily eagle: Queens pols push One Fair Wage in Albany

January 10, 2024

On Monday, State Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas rallied with advocates in Albany for her One Fair Wage bill, which would equally compensate tipped workers like restaurant staffers.

City & State: ‘Now I’m part of the statistic’ Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas talks pedestrian safety

January 10, 2024

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas is known for her progressive politics and loyalty to her Queens district. But in recent days González-Rojas’ has been in the news after being struck by a car, making her one of two lawmakers in Albany with an arm in a sling. 

QNS: Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas breaks arm after being struck by vehicle

January 8, 2024

The Queens lawmaker has long been a proponent for legislations on street safety and redesigning roadways. While she said the collision was still fresh in her mind, she also noted that similar crashes have proven fatal for others.

Street blog NYC: Queens Pol Recovering From Broken Arm, Bruises After Driver Strikes Her in Crosswalk

January 7, 2024

A state legislator from Queens who has fought for safer streets was hit and injured in a car crash last week, sending her to the hospital with a broken arm, bruises — and a renewed vigor to put an end to traffic violence. 

Politics ny: Queens lawmaker Jessica González-Rojas breaks arm after being hit by car

January 7, 2024

González-Rojas, a Democrat who represents parts of Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Corona, said on X Saturday that she was hit by a car in a crosswalk while walking on 35th Avenue in Jackson Heights on the evening of Jan. 4. She went to Elmhurst Hospital where she was treated for a broken arm and bruising.

AMNY: Queens lawmaker Jessica González-Rojas breaks arm after being hit by car

January 7, 2024

González-Rojas, a Democrat who represents parts of Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Corona, said on X Saturday that she was hit by a car in a crosswalk while walking on 35th Avenue in Jackson Heights on the evening of Jan. 4.

Op-Ed: This Year’s State Budget Must Prioritize Climate, Jobs, and Justice for New York

Jan. 30, 2023

In a time of rampant economic inequality and environmental injustice, it is easy to feel defeated.  Here in Queens and across New York State, however, communities are organizing for a better future. New Yorkers from different backgrounds and with different lived experiences are proving that we can build community, organize, and create a future that reflects our shared values.

Gotham Gazette: We’re Assembly Members, Healthcare Experts, Women of Color, Mothers, and Fed Up: It’s Time to Pass the New York Health Act

May 18, 2022

The fact is, New York’s profit-driven health-care system continues to fail marginalized communities like those we represent in the State Legislature. As a matter of racial and gender justice, we must finally pass single-payer health care this state legislative session.

JACKSON HEIGHTS POST: González-Rojas Sponsors Bill That Would Fund Abortions for Out-of-State Women

May 10, 2022

Jackson Heights Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas introduced legislation Monday that would set up a $50 million fund that would pay for abortion services for women from out of state where the procedure is outlawed. The funds would then be used to cover the cost of the procedure—as well as traveling expenses and childcare costs—for women from out of state as well as low-income New Yorkers.

JACKSON HEIGHTS POST: Queens Assemblymember Introduces Bill to Ban Non-Disclosure Agreements

May 2, 2022

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas has introduced a bill that would bar employers from including an NDA or non-disparagement agreement in a settlement pertaining to an alleged violation of human rights law or labor law.

SUNNYSIDE POST: Assembly Member González-Rojas Secures Funding for Several Programs in the State Budget

April 14, 2022

State lawmakers passed the final $220 billion state budget for fiscal year 2023 over the weekend. The budget, González-Rojas said, included funding for renters and small landlords, hospitals, schools, CUNY, childcare and other items she advocated for.

ASTORIA POST: Advocates Call for State Legislature to Pass González-Rojas’ Bill to Decriminalize Unlicensed Massage Parlors

March 1, 2022

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, community advocates and local massage workers came together at the Flushing Worker’s Center in Flushing Friday to bring attention to her legislation that would remove criminal penalties for massage workers who practice without a license.

QNS: Queens lawmaker pushes for increased funding for mental health professionals in public schools

February 24, 2022

“I want our children to be healthy as they learn in our schools and that they can get the help they need as they struggle with the isolation that the pandemic has caused, as well as other issues like racial inequity that are more clear than ever in our borough and in our state,” [Jessica] González-Rojas said.

QNS: Queens lawmaker addresses maternal mental health with new legislation

January 21, 2022

Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas is sponsoring legislation to address the inadequacies of maternal mental health screenings, especially for Black and Brown women.

QNS: Queens lawmaker appointed to Assembly Health Committee

January 10, 2022

Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas was appointed to the Assembly Standing Committee on Health, making her one of only two Latinas on the Committee, she announced on Friday, Jan. 7. González-Rojas is a longtime health advocate who served 13 years at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice before being elected as an Assembly member.

ASTORIA Post: González-Rojas’ Bill Requiring the MTA to Prioritize Bike Access on MTA Bridges Becomes Law

December 29, 2021

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a Queens legislator’s bill into law Tuesday that requires the MTA to prioritize bicycle access on MTA bridges and in commuter train stations. The legislation sponsored by Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas requires the MTA to develop a strategic plan to promote both bike and pedestrian access on all MTA bridges and at commuter rail stations across the state.

JAckson Heights Post: Assembly Member González-Rojas and Cycling Advocates Call on Governor to Sign MTA Bike Access Bill

November 19, 2021

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas joined cycling advocates Thursday to call on the governor to sign her bill that would require the MTA to prioritize bicycle access.

WNYC: Why New York State Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas is Fighting for Immigration Reform

October 8, 2021

On Thursday, activists and advocates protested in front of the White House, demanding that the Congressional reconciliation package include a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. New York State Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas traveled to D.C. this week and was arrested while participating in that peaceful protest. 

CITY & STATE: What Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas saw at Rikers

September 14, 2021

City & State caught up with Jessica González-Rojas Tuesday morning to hear more about her visit and what she thinks can be done to address the “inhumane” conditions she saw. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

QNS: Assembly member González-Rojas expands reproductive health education with new legislation

July 21, 2021

González-Rojas said that this legislation perfectly aligns with her goals as an elected official looking to prioritize women’s health and reproductive rights. Prior to running for office, she ran a nonprofit called the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, working to make health care accessible.

Gotham Gazette: Latino Vote '21 Podcast: Queens, with Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas

June 4, 2021

For the third episode of the Latino Vote '21 pop-up podcast, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas joined host Eli Valentin to discuss the Latino vote in Queens.

QNS: Queens senator calls on SLA to restore all liquor license removals

September 4, 2020

“We are in the district that was deeply impacted by COVID,” González-Rojas said. “There’s a restaurant down the street from my home, I live right off Northern Boulevard, and I witnessed it getting shut down for days due to fines. I witness another restaurant get a $1,500 fine without any proof — and when they ask for proof they got a grainy photo that shows nothing. This is unjust.”

CITY & STATE: The Power of Diversity: Latino Power 100

August 24, 2020

The former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health has built a brand for progressive activism, taking part in a number of Black Lives Matter protests, advocating for canceling rent during the pandemic, and pressing forward with a so-called Green New Northern Deal.

QUEENS COUNTY POLITICS: González-Rojas: “That’s the Way We Build Power – Being Counted”

August 20, 2020

“The thing we have to assert is that it is safe, the data’s safe,” said Democratic nominee for New York’s 34th Assembly District Jessica González-Rojas. “And then why we need you to be counted and then why we need your families and children to be counted as well.”

QNS: Queens community urges governor to tax billionaires and create a worker bailout fund

August 10, 2020

On Sunday, more than 300 people marched during Make the Road New York’s “Barrios Not Billionaires March” in support of the legislation, from Corona Plaza west along Roosevelt Avenue and down Junction Boulevard to LeFrak City complex where they called out billionaire businessman Richard LeFrak.

CITY LIMITS: Dos nuevas caras de latinas ganan primarias para la asamblea del estado de NY

August 3, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, hija de madre puertorriqueña y padre paraguayo, fue la directora ejecutiva del Instituto Nacional de Latinas por la Justicia Reproductiva por más de 12 años, hasta cuando decidió lanzarse a la campaña electoral en 2019.

CITY LIMITS Opinion: NY Faces Three More Years of Harmful Budget Cuts Unless Legislative Leaders Act Now

August 1, 2020

Last month’s primary election results – our wins – make it clear that voters want a state legislature that stands up to the governor when it comes to budget and policy. So why are Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Carl Heastie blocking efforts to give their own members equal budget authority?

QUEENS LATINO: Ni un muerto más

July 29, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, quien recientemente derrotó al asambleísta Michael DenDekker en las elecciones primarias del Partido Demócrata, gritó a todo pulmón, “Cuomo escucha, estamos en la lucha”.

CAPITOL PRESSROOM: ACTIVIST JESSICA GONZÁLEZ-ROJAS HOPES TO PRODUCE CHANGE FROM THE INSIDE

July 24, 2020

This year’s primaries saw a wave of progressive candidates unseat longtime Assembly incumbents. Today, we met one of those primary winners, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and discussed her goals for office.

NY1 Noticias: Candidata latina gana primaria para asamblea estatal en distrito en Queens

July 22, 2020

“Yo quiero luchar para los fondos para las escuelas aquí, yo quiero luchar para los derechos de los inmigrantes”. Esta es la tarjeta de presentación de Jessica González-Rojas, que aspira a representar al distrito 34 en la asamblea estatal.

queens chronicle: More insurgents claim primary wins

July 17, 2020

“This win means so much! Make the Road was the first group to step out and make a bold endorsement and we won on a progressive agenda that centers communities most impacted by injustices,” wrote González-Rojas.

QNS: Progressive challenger Jessica González-Rojas wins Jackson Heights Assembly primary

July 17, 2020

Progressive first-time challenger Jessica González-Rojas has won the highly contested race for Assembly District 34, beating six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker as well as three other candidates, on Friday, July 17.

RELEASE: Jessica González-Rojas Wins PRIMARY FOR Assembly Seat After Mail-in Ballots are Counted

July 17, 2020

González-Rojas, who showed a commanding lead after the initial in-person election results on June 23rd, maintained her advantage after mail-in ballots were finally tallied. She earned over 40% of the total votes cast in a five-person race to represent parts of Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside. 

GoTHAM GAZETTE: After Strong Primary Showing, Will New Crop of Progressives Push Assembly Democrats Further Left?

July 15, 2020

“It’s not good enough to just vote the right way,” said Jessica González-Rojas, an activist who is well ahead of incumbent Michael DenDekker in Queen’s 34th Assembly District as absentee ballots are being counted. “Now, we need champions for these policies.”

NEW YORK TIMES: Insurgent Wave in New York Pushes Old Guard Democrats Aside

June 30, 2020

“The anti-establishment sentiment was also prominently in display in Queens, one of the most ethnically diverse parts of the country ….there, three candidates for State Assembly — Jessica González-Rojas, who is of Paraguayan and Puerto Rican descent…were all beating white incumbents as of Tuesday.”

queens chronicle: Leftward wave still showing its energy

June 25, 2020

In Assembly District 34, Working Families Party-backed Latina reproductive health advocate Jessica González-Rojas pulled out a 15-point lead over incumbent Assemblyman Michael Den Dekker (D-Jackson Heights). Den Dekker, a white East Elmhurst resident who first won his seat in 2008, has presided over the majority-Latino district without a primary since.

queens post: Assembly Member Michael DenDekker Defeated, Progressives Strike Another Blow

June 24, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, who was the former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, appears to have defeated 12-year incumbent Michael DenDekker to win the primary for the 34th Assembly District.

POLITICO: Progressives looking good as New York waits to count absentees

June 24, 2020

In the Assembly, several incumbents trailed their progressive challengers. It’s probably safe to assume that Assemblyman Michael DenDekker (down 17 to Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas) and Michael Miller (down 26 to Jenifer Rajkumar) have lost in Queens. Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas trailed Zohran Kwame Mamdani by 8 points.

QUEENS CHRONICLE: Despite uncertainties, Democratic primary turnout is strong in western Queens

June 24, 2020

Despite the unusual nature of the June 23 primary elections, which were rescheduled due to the coronavirus and then saw absentee ballots made a universal option for all New Yorkers, the consensus among poll workers in northwestern Queens was turnout was solid.

QUEENS CHRONICLE: Preliminary Queens primary results: Richards leads BP race

June 24, 2020

In the 34th Assembly District, Assemblyman Michael DenDekker  (D-East Elmhurst) was trailing Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, 1,691 to 928 in a five person race with 64.44 percent of the scanners tabulated.

EL DIARIO: Tu voto, tu voz en Nueva York

June 21, 2020

Para la Asamblea estatal distrito 34 de Queens apoyamos a Jessica González-Rojas, ex directora del Instituto Nacional de Latinas para la Salud Reproductiva y miembro fundadora de NICE (entidad de trabaja a favor de los jornaleros). Ella es una gran defensora de Medicare para Todos, la reforma policial y justicia penal así como justicia para los inmigrantes.

the intercept: BEYOND JAMAAL BOWMAN, PROGRESSIVES TARGETING NEW YORK INCUMBENTS UP AND DOWN THE BALLOT

June 20, 2020

González-Rojas is one of a slate of credible progressive challengers taking on state Assembly incumbents in the June 23 primary, running largely on the argument that New York’s pandemic-and-Trump-administration-produced budget crisis should be resolved by taxing the wealthy rather than austerity.

queens county politics: 34th AD candidates speak out on police reform, COVID-19 and more

June 19, 2020

With the Queens Democratic Party opening up for the first time in years with new candidates, six-term Assemblymember Michael DenDekker (D-Jackson Heights, Woodside, East Elmhurst) is being forced to defend his seat for the first time.

NY1: Debate with Errol Louis

June 19, 2020

Errol Louis moderates a debate between those four Democrats running in the 34th State Assembly District

NY1: Tiffany Caban Endorses Jessica González-Rojas

June 19, 2020

Juan Manuel Benitez looks at the 34th Assembly District and the challengers and the incumbent.

DEBATE on CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Hosted by The Appeal, Justice Collaborative, and NowThis

Full debate

new york times: Will the Pandemic Slow New York’s Progressive Momentum?

June 18, 2020

Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, an Assembly candidate in Queens, has used phone banks to assess residents’ needs during the outbreak, and she follows up with personal visits.

Univision: Hispana busca representar a uno de los barrios más afectados por el coronavirus en NY

June 16, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, que ha trabajado como activista por muchos años, ha enfocado su campaña en ayudar a su comunidad de Queens, la cual ha sido una de las más afectadas por la pandemia del coronavirus. Busca representar uno de los distritos con mayor población hispana del estado de Nueva York.

GOTHAM GAZETTE: Challenges for Challengers: Coronavirus Crisis May Make It An Especially Tough Year for Insurgents to Overcome Incumbents

June 16, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated existing inequalities, a trend that may extend to party primary elections happening this month, where already-disadvantaged challengers to incumbents could face even more daunting odds, experts say.

QNS: Make the Road Action, DenDekker challenger call on assemblyman to support Recovery for All movement

June 15, 2020

Make the Road Action, District 34 Assembly candidate Jessica González-Rojas and more than 50 Queens residents marched toward Assemblyman Michael DenDekker’s office to hold him accountable for “failing to ensure a Recovery for All, including a state-level Excluded Workers’ Fund and canceling rent” on Thursday, June 11.

STREETSBLOG: StreetsPAC Endorses Six Challengers in June 23 Primary

June 12, 2020

González-Rojas’s “bold plan” to redesign dangerous Northern Boulevard makes her the most likely candidate in a multi-candidate race to prevail against the “mediocre” incumbent.

CITY & STATE: candidates of color who could topple longtime white incumbents

June 11, 2020

One candidate who may have the best chance of mirroring AOC’s success is González-Rojas, an activist who has worked on immigrants rights, whose father immigrated from Paraguay and whose mother is Puerto Rican. “We are extremely diverse,” González-Rojas said of her district. “And we've never been represented by someone that reflects either the diversity or the values of the neighborhood.

QUEENS COUNTY POLITICS: González-Rojas pressures incumbent DenDekker on police reform

June 9, 2020

In the midst of citywide protests against the NYPD following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, 34th Assembly District Candidate Jessica González-Rojas challenged incumbent Assemblymember Michael DenDekker (D-Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside) on his police reform record.

EL DIARIO OP-ED: Nuestra comunidad necesita rendición de cuentas de la policía

June 8, 2020

En las últimas dos semanas, a través de toda nuestra ciudad y todo nuestro país, se ha levantado un enorme movimiento social exigiendo justicia y cambios reales a un sistema de policía racista que a diario ataca a nuestras comunidades. Las comunidades negras y latinas, con nuestros aliados, hemos estado en las calles exigiendo una verdadera rendición de cuentas de la policía.

GOTHAM GAZETTE: Competitive Queens Primary in District Ravaged by Coronavirus Strikes Familiar Themes

June 8, 2020

González-Rojas, backed by the Working Families Party, is the progressive choice to beat DenDekker, with a platform addressing housing, LGBTQ rights, police accountability, and immigrant and environmental justice. Some of her proposals include free tuition for students at the City University of New York, universal health care, defending state bail reforms that were recently partially rolled back, stronger protections for renters, and limiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s power in New York.

QUEENS POST: Hundreds March to Jackson Heights Assembly Member’s Office to Demand Action on Police Accountability

June 3, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, who is vying for DenDekker’s seat, was also critical of the incumbent. She claimed that he only made the donations and backed reforms after political pressure stemming from George Floyd’s killing and subsequent protests.

“We need a representative who will stand up for the district, which is 88% people of color, not law enforcement PACs that attempt to squash important criminal justice reforms,” González-Rojas said in a press release separate from the march.

Queens eagle: Progressive legislative candidates push inmate release measures during COVID crisis

June 1, 2020

A group of progressive legislative candidates are urging their would-be colleagues in Albany to prioritize a package of bills providing a pathway to freedom for inmates in COVID-plagued state prisons.

RELEASE: Progressive Challenger Jessica González-Rojas Blasts Incumbent Mike DenDekker for Taking Thousands in Law Enforcement Donations & Failing to Support Police Accountability Legislation

May 31, 2020

“Assemblyman Michael DenDekker has failed our community. DenDekker has taken over $22,000 from law enforcement in campaign contributions in this election cycle alone and he refuses to back any legislation that would hold them accountable for misconduct. DenDekker will not stand up to the law enforcement forces that are funding his campaign.”

NBC NEWS: Latino group backs Democrats who could make history, boost Hispanic voter turnout

May 29, 2020

Latino Victory Fund reasons that the presence of a Latino candidate may help build the margin needed for Biden, while getting more Latinos in the political office pipeline.

City Limits: On June 23, Elect Champions for a Recovery for All

May 26, 2020

In Western Queens, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas is running for state assembly in District 34, one of the most impacted areas in the entire country. Jessica has fought throughout her career for access to health for all, most recently as the Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health. In these months she has worked tirelessly to coordinate direct assistance to those in need–converting her campaign into a mutual aid effort–and advocate for her community.

QNS: Cabán endorses González-Rojas for western Queens Assembly seat

May 21, 2020

Former candidate for Queens District Attorney Tiffany Cabán announced her support for Jessica González-Rojas, a reproductive health advocate and insurgent candidate in the Democratic primary for State Assembly District 34.

EL DIARIO: Jessica González-Rojas arrecia campaña para llegar a la Asamblea Estatal por el Distrito 34

May 21, 2020

La activista comunitaria, hija de padre paraguayo y madre boricua, espera desbancar de su curul a Michael DenDekker, quien lleva 12 años en el cargo.

QUEENS DAILY EAGLE: Cabán backs González-Rojas in Jackson Heights Assembly race

May 21, 2020

Former Queens District Attorney candidate Tiffany Cabán has endorsed Jessica González-Rojas in the crowded Democratic primary for Queens’ Assembly District 34.

jackson heights post: Dromm Endorses Insurgent for State Assembly

May 18, 2020

Dromm formally endorsed Jessica González-Rojas this morning in Jackson Heights. She hopes to unseat six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker in a district that covers Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst and parts of Woodside and Corona.

QNS: Jackson Heights councilman endorses insurgent Assembly candidate for District 34 seat

May 18, 2020

Jackson Heights Councilman Daniel Dromm has endorsed Jessica González-Rojas, an insurgent candidate for the Assembly seat in District 34, ahead of the June 23 primary election.

With two emails, Queens Rep. Ocasio-Cortez raises over $140K to purchase masks for essential workers

May 14, 2020

Like Ocasio-Cortez, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a candidate for State Assembly in New York State Assembly District 34, has also mobilized her campaign toward direct relief for residents affected by the pandemic.

EL CORREO: Candidata hispana dice que se debe hacer más por los inmigrantes indocumentados durante la pandemia de COVID-19

April 28, 2020

Los días de Jessica González-Rojas ahora consisten en llamadas de ayuda, entrega de alimentos y necesidades básicas a los vecinos, y la realización de seminarios web informativos para la comunidad de Jackson Heights, uno de los barrios de Queens más afectados por la pandemia de COVID-19.

qns: Jackson Heights Assembly candidate says more must be done for immigrant, undocumented communities during COVID-19 pandemic

April 24, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas’ days now consist of mutual aid calls, delivering groceries and basic needs to neighbors, and hosting informative webinars for the Jackson Heights community, one of the Queens neighborhoods hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

city and state: If they can’t knock on doors, how do candidates get face time?

April 19, 2020

If anyone could recreate Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s shocking 2018 upset, it would be Jessica González-Rojas. Like Ocasio-Cortez before her, González-Rojas is a Latina challenging an older, moderate white man who took office years ago. Assemblyman Michael DenDekker, this race’s Joe Crowley, is a six-term Democrat representing Queens neighborhoods like Jackson Heights that lie entirely within what is now AOC’s district.

vogue: Meet Jessica González-Rojas, the Activist Fighting to Save Queens’s Most Imperiled District

April 15, 2020

As the former Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, González-Rojas is no stranger to fighting for those in need. “I’ve always been the thorn in the side of many elected officials, pushing for issues that are important to immigrant communities and women,” González-Rojas, the daughter of a father from Paraguay and a Puerto Rican mother, told Vogue over the phone.

The QNS Podcast: Listeners share their COVID-19 experiences

April 13, 2020

On this special episode of the QNS Podcast, we hear from you, the listener. We have stories from the leader of a nonprofit, a state senator, a candidate for State Assembly, a playwright and a freelance journalist.

streetsblog Op-Ed: Keep MTA Buses Fare-Free After the Pandemic

March 2, 2020

An emergency measure for social distancing presents an opportunity for improving air quality and social equity, an activist argues.

QUEENS DAILY EAGLE: Queens Assembly candidates urge lawmakers to demand speedy jail release

March 23, 2020

Three progressive Assembly candidates from Western Queens have drafted an open letter to their would-be colleagues, urging the borough’s elected officials to use their influence to accelerate the release of detainees and inmates from New York jails as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases climbs.

RELEASE: GONZÁLEZ-ROJAS UNVEILS BOLD, PROGRESSIVE EDUCATION PLAN

March 9, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, Democrat for Assembly (NY34), stood with education advocates and experts to unveil a bold platform for education reforms. González-Rojas, a parent of a public school student and former adjunct professor at CUNY and NYU, called for expanding dual language programs, a universal childcare program, comprehensive sex education, and significant increase in special education funding.

Qns: Working Families Party endorses progressive challenger for DenDekker’s Assembly seat

March 6, 2020

The New York Working Families Party endorsed Jackson Heights resident Jessica González-Rojas in her primary challenge against Assemblyman Michael DenDekker Thursday. In pledging their support, NY-WFP State Director Sochie Nnaemeka praised González-Rojas’ record fighting for healthcare as a human right and for racial justice.

Queens daily eagle: Working Families Party backs González-Rojas in Assembly District 34

March 5, 2020

New York WFP State Director Sochie Nnaemeka said González-Rojas “has the political courage to demand the revenue our communities in Queens need to thrive. Jessica is centering working families, immigrants and communities of color — and we’re proud to fight for her on the campaign trail this year.”

The forum: Dromm, Gonzalez-Rojas Lead Rally Defending New Bail-Reform Law

February 20, 2020

On Tuesday, City Council Finance Committee Chairman Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) joined Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a Democratic candidate running to represent Assembly District 34, in leading a rally at Diversity Plaza at 74th Street and Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights in defense of bail reform in the five boroughs.

NY1: Bail Reform is Criminal Justice

February 19, 2020

Bail reform is a vitally necessary reform that impacts so many communities of color and low-income people. Pre-trial detention needlessly puts too many people at risk. I am running for State Assembly to be a leader on criminal justice reforms that impact our community.

el diario: Exigen a Albany no retroceder en avances de reforma a la justicia

February 19, 2020

“La reforma de la fianza es una reforma vitalmente necesaria que afecta a muchas comunidades de color y personas de bajos ingresos, porque las poblaciones marginadas no pueden pagar la fianza son criminalizadas desproporcionadamente debido a la pobreza”, dijo la política.

queens latino: Jessica González-Rojas quiere el asiento de Michael DenDekker

February 19, 2020

“He sido activista toda mi vida y represento los valores de este vecindario”, dijo González-Rojas en conferencia de prensa para defender la reforma de la libertad bajo fianza por considerarla una injusticia social. “Los ricos pueden pagar la fianza y comprar su libertad, mientras que los pobres son enjaulados por delitos menores”.

RELEASE: González-Rojas and Dromm Stand with Criminal Justice Advocates to Defend New York’s Bail Reform

February 18, 2020

Jessica González-Rojas, Democrat for Assembly (NY34), was joined by City Council Member Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) and criminal justice advocates to blast attempts to roll back advancements on bail reform in New York. Although major progress was made last year, New York’s criminal justice system is under attack from reactionary politicians and conservative prosecutors who want to return to an unjust past.

streetsblog: Meet the Democratic Insurgents Who Want Transit to be Free

February 17, 2020

“I’m a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, and there’s lots of conversations happening with the insurgent candidates, an energy to thinking big about public goods and human rights and something that gets us away from a system that actually serves everybody,” Gonzalez-Rojas, who’s running against Assembly Member Michael DenDekker in Jackson Heights said. “That ensures we’re not excluding people from these benefits because they don’t have the resources.”

Release: NARAL Pro-Choice America Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for NY State Assembly

February 4, 2020

“Jessica González-Rojas is a lifelong, tireless advocate for reproductive freedom,” says Ilyse Hogue, President of NARAL Pro-Choice America. “NARAL is proud to endorse her so she can bring her leadership and expertise to the New York State Legislature and work to ensure that women in the state are free to make their own personal decisions about pregnancy without interference from politicians.”

STREETSBLOG: Jackson Heights Assembly Candidate Unveils Plan to Transform Deadly Northern Boulevard

January 30, 2020

An insurgent — and car-free! — Assembly candidate from Queens wants to transform deadly Northern Boulevard into a 14th Street-style busway to help break the district’s car culture that the incumbent lawmaker seems to favor.

“We cannot accept this any longer, it is time for a major change to improve Northern Boulevard,” said González-Rojas.

QUEENS CHRONICLE: We cannot accept this any longer’; Assembly candidate calls for green changes to Northern

January 30, 2020

National Latina Institute executive director Jessica González-Rojas, running against Assemblyman Michael Den Dekker (D-East Elmhurst) in a Democratic primary, announced her plan for a “Green New Northern Boulevard,” on Monday morning. In recent years, Northern has taken the moniker “The Boulevard of Death” from Queens Boulevard.

QNS: Jackson Heights Assembly candidate presents her plan for a safer Northern Boulevard

January 29, 2020

A progressive, insurgent Assembly candidate from Jackson Heights has presented a radical plan to end the carnage of Northern Boulevard, the most dangerous roadway in Queens. Jessica González-Rojas presented her bold plan surrounded by community leaders, small business owners and transportation advocates.

QNS: Western Queens Assembly challengers reinforce campaigns with strong fundraising

January 23, 2020

Gonzelez-Rojas, a progressive Latina candidate, also reached a greater number of people than her competition. She had 536 individual contributions from 495 unique donors, and incumbent DenDekker had 100 individual contributions from 92 unique donors.

Luz Collective: Jessica González-Rojas Wants Systemic Change And Is Aiming For The New York State Assembly

January 22, 2020

While Jessica González-Rojas’ dream was to work in the United Nations and become a diplomat, an early opportunity to work with Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, the first Puerto Rican woman to serve in the U.S. Congress, rerouted her path. There, González-Rojas realized that she didn’t need to leave the U.S. to help people in need.

QNS: Jackson Heights residents wary of bus service changes proposed by MTA

January 8, 2020

“I am deeply troubled by the MTA’s proposal to eliminate several bus routes that are critically important to most bus commuters in Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, Corona and Woodside,” González-Rojas said. “As someone who does not own a car and relies on MTA’s buses and subways every day, I understand how problematic this will be to everyone in our community.”

2020: bold and brave

December 31, 2019

As we wind down the final hours of 2019, it is important to reflect on both the progress we have made this year but also the challenges that remain for our community. I believe that the past year proved that so much is possible when we are bold and brave.

qns: Influential immigrant rights group endorses insurgent progressive challenger against DenDekker

December 18, 2019

Make the Road Action, a leading progressive community organization announced it would back Jessica González-Rojas. A nationally-recognized expert on health care reform, gender and racial justice who was formerly the Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health.

release: NYCC Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for State Assembly

December 18, 2019

New York Communities for Change is backing Jessica González-Rojas, a life-long activist and change-maker, to be a leader in the State Legislature fighting to make CUNY free again, charting a path for a Green New Deal, and mobilizing to make housing a human right in New York.

Queens daily eagle: Influential immigrants’ rights group backs challenger in Assembly District 34

December 17, 2019

Queens-based immigrants’ rights organization Make the Road Action has endorsed a challenger to six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker in the race for Assembly District 34. The influential organization announced that it will back Jessica González-Rojas, a health care reform expert and former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, in the June 2020 Democratic primary.

RELEASE: Make the Road Action Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for State Assembly

December 17, 2019

Make the Road Action (MRA), a leading progressive community organization in Queens representing immigrants and working-class people of color, announced today its endorsement of Jessica González-Rojas for Assembly District 34, encompassing the neighborhoods of Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside.

WNBC4: Hundreds of Airline Catering Workers Protest at JFK Airport

November 26, 2019

There were dozens arrested after the workers protested and blocked traffic at the American Airlines section of terminal 8 at the busy airport. They are demanding better pay and benefits.

QNS: Jackson Heights Assembly challenger centers her campaign launch on healthcare, immigrant rights

November 20, 2019

Reproductive health advocate Jessica González-Rojas, an insurgent candidate the Assembly seat in District 34, officially launched her campaign to a crammed bar of supporters on Monday, Nov. 18.

Release: Community Activist Jessica González-Rojas Launches Campaign for Assembly

November 19, 2019

Over one hundred people turned out in the rain in support of Jessica González-Rojas as she launched her campaign for the New York State Assembly, District 34. Speaking in front of a standing room-only crowd packed into Alejandro’s Tapas Bar in Woodside, González-Rojas presented her vision for the future of the Queens community.

REMEZCLA: Trans Activist Kicked Out of Event for Protesting Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez

November 12, 2019

“As a Puerto Rican woman of the diaspora who was deeply inspired by the leadership and activism of local organizers during the protests this summer, I was appalled that Vázquez was being honored at this luncheon,” González-Rojas, the former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health who is now running to represent New York’s 34th assembly district, tells Remezcla.

VIDEO: FIGHTING TOGETHER

November 10, 2019

I am running for State Assembly because the stakes are too high. Join us for our campaign launch party on Monday, Nov 18th at 6:30pm at Alejandro's Tapas Bar at 38-01 69th Street in Woodside.

RELEASE: Primary Election Challengers for New York State Legislative Seats to Incumbents: Do Your Job on #FairElections

November 7, 2019

A unique collaborative event organized by State Senate and Assembly primary challengers occurred this morning on the steps of City Hall to call on incumbents, including legislative leadership, to immediately speak out more forcefully in support of a strong small donor matching program for New York State.