Brooklyn Assembly Member Brian Cunningham has formally endorsed Governor Kathy Hochul for reelection, becoming the first elected official in Brooklyn to publicly support her campaign to remain New York’s governor.
Cunningham made the announcement on Thursday, praising Hochul’s leadership and the tangible results delivered to communities across Central Brooklyn. He said their working relationship has been rooted in action rather than rhetoric and credited the governor for consistently showing up for residents through meaningful policy decisions and investments.
He highlighted that under Hochul’s leadership, his 43rd Assembly District has received more than 1.3 billion dollars in state funding. These resources have supported affordable housing initiatives, transportation upgrades, education programs, public safety efforts, economic development, and vital community infrastructure projects. According to Cunningham, these investments are reshaping lives throughout Central Brooklyn and demonstrate a commitment to equity by delivering resources where they are most needed.
Describing the governor as compassionate and competent, Cunningham said he looks forward to continuing their partnership to build a stronger, safer, and more affordable New York for working class families. He emphasized that Hochul understands the challenges faced by everyday New Yorkers and governs with a deep sense of responsibility toward their well being.
Cunningham represents the 43rd Assembly District, which includes Crown Heights, Prospect Lefferts Gardens, and Flatbush. Since his election in March 2022, he has focused on advancing legislation and securing funding aimed at strengthening housing, education, public safety, and economic opportunities throughout the district and the state.
Born and raised in New York City to Jamaican immigrant parents, Cunningham describes himself as a lifelong resident dedicated to public service. Growing up in a working class household, he said his upbringing shaped his commitment to equity and opportunity for all New Yorkers.
Before entering the Assembly, Cunningham built a career in government, nonprofit leadership, and community development. He previously served as chief of staff in the New York City Council and later as a special assistant in the New York State Senate, where he gained experience in legislative operations, policy development, and constituent services.
Cunningham also made history as the first elected person to lead a Cure Violence site in New York City, spearheading efforts to reduce gun violence in Central Brooklyn. He has worked as a youth advisor with organizations including CAMBA and NPower and served as an aide to President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, supporting mentorship and education initiatives for young men of color.
In the Assembly, Cunningham has championed legislation focused on housing, education, mental health, and public safety. His initiatives include faith based affordable housing programs, the High Impact Tutoring Act, youth crisis outreach, and violence prevention alternatives such as the Central Brooklyn Classic basketball tournament.
Since taking office, he has secured more than one billion dollars in funding for the district, supporting health care access, housing development, educational advancement, and community growth.
Cunningham currently serves as first vice chair of the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislators. He also served as the inaugural treasurer of the New York State Black Legislative Task Force, helping establish its financial and organizational foundation.
He lives in Brooklyn with his wife Stephanie Cunningham, executive director of Museum Hue, and their son Senator Cunningham. He is also a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, Kappa Beta Sigma Chapter.
Cunningham said he remains committed to ensuring Central Brooklyn continues to thrive as a vibrant, safe, and inclusive community for families across the district.