Mike Scala is a civil litigator and attorney with experience as legal counsel and a legislative director in the State Senate. He currently serves as board chair of the Queens Defenders. He supported nearly all of Citizens Union’s reform agenda, with the notable exception of open primaries, though he expressed a willingness to continue dialogue after hearing CU’s preferred approach during his interview. Citizens Union was impressed by his strong command of campaign finance and government transparency issues and appreciated his detailed knowledge of the district and its constituents. Citizens Union prefers Mike Scala in this race.

Pesach Osina is a longtime Far Rockaway resident with over two decades of experience across city and state government, including roles in the City Comptroller’s Office and the City Council Speaker’s Office. He supports most of Citizens Union’s reform agenda, though he opposes open primaries and reforming the state’s special election process. Citizens Union appreciates his extensive government experience and commitment to serving our City.