In a surprising development, the Westchester County Democratic Party has nominated Hal Berman, the embattled County Executive, to challenge Representative Jamaal Bowman in the 2022 midterms. The move comes as a surprise to many, given Berman’s controversies in recent years, including his handling of the Budget for Westchester Schools and the numerous legal problems he has faced.
Berman, who was first elected to the Westchester County Executive role in 2014, has been in office for almost three years. During his tenure, the County Executive has faced allegations from numerous sources including the New York Daily News, New York State Attorney General’s Office, the Division of Budget, and U.S. Department of Justice. The allegations range from overspending issues to illegal contracts and financial mismanagement.
Despite these issues, Berman is still seen as a strong potential challenger to Bowman. He has a long record of public service, including almost a decade on the Board of Trustees for the Town of Bedford.
Berman is running on a platform focused on fiscal responsibility and addressing the needs of working families. He has emphasized his support for a number of local initiatives such as expanding New York’s Paid Family Leave program and increasing the minimum wage. As a relatively unknown candidate in the race, Berman will have to prove his viability if he wants to be successful in taking on Bowman.
Though untested in a primary race, Berman could be the strongest challenger yet for Bowman. The incumbent is facing a challenging reelection in an increasingly competitive district that voted overwhelmingly for 2020 Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden. Bowman has been heavily criticized for his progressive and liberal policies, which could work against him come election time. Berman, a more centrist candidate, could present a more attractive alternative for more moderate voters in the district.
We will have to wait and see what effect Berman’s candidacy has on the 2022 midterms, but it’s a development that has the potential to shake-up the electoral landscape in Westchester County.
