Utica, NY — Members of Citizen Action of New York, Empire State Voices, and community advocates from across New York’s 22nd Congressional District gathered today in Utica to stage a powerful banner drop protest, drawing attention to Congressman Brandon Williams’ ongoing failure to address the pressing issues affecting Central New Yorkers.
Despite repeated calls for action from constituents, Congressman Williams has consistently voted against the interests of working families in his district. Instead of advocating for the needs of everyday New Yorkers, he has chosen to prioritize the interests of big corporations and align himself with the MAGA agenda.
The banner sent a bold message: “Brandon Williams, You Can’t Hide – We Know You Hurt CNY!” This direct action seeks to hold Congressman Williams accountable for his failure to support critical issues like climate initiatives and reproductive rights, highlighting his neglect of the very constituents he was elected to serve.
“Central New Yorkers deserve a representative who fights for their interests, not someone who turns a blind eye to their struggles,” said Senya Bekui, CNY Lead Organizer for Citizen Action of New York. “Congressman Williams has repeatedly ignored the needs of working families, choosing instead to support policies that benefit the wealthy and powerful. Our communities are demanding better.”
“Thanks to Congressman Williams’ total lack of presence in the district, most Central New Yorkers don’t have a clue what he stands for,” said Sean Yang, NY-22 Regional Organizing Director for Empire State Voices. “Those who do are fed up with his constant attempts to undermine Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security — programs that working families in his district rely on. We’re out in the streets of Utica today to remind people exactly what Rep. Williams’ voting record looks like: an unending string of attacks against the people of Central New York.”
“My first election was in 2022, and I didn’t know much about Brandon Williams,” said Avery Johnson of Citizen Action’s Central New York Chapter. “I’ve since learned he doesn’t show up for Utica. He votes to protect billionaires while cutting over $600 million for clean water. Utica deserves someone who won’t ignore us and will invest real attention and resources in our community.”
