Rep. Adriano Espaillat has endorsed Councilmember Keith Powers in the race for Manhattan borough president, his most prominent endorsement yet. The congressman’s endorsement is a significant gain for Powers, as Espaillat holds sway in upper Manhattan and among many Latino voters. Espaillat said he chose to throw his weight behind the term-limited East Village rep because of his record of fighting for working and middle-class people and immigrants. “Keith grew up in rent-stabilized housing and knows what it’s like to work hard to make ends meet,” Espaillat said. “That’s why he’s dedicated his career to building more affordable housing, protecting our workers, and driving down the cost of living for our families.” Powers is facing off in the June primary against State Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal. Current beep Mark Levine is not seeking reelection, instead running for city comptroller. “I’m incredibly grateful to have the support of Congressman Adriano Espaillat, a longstanding champion for our communities in Upper Manhattan,” Powers said. “In this campaign, we’re building a broad coalition of support that spans the entire borough and consistently fights for working people and democratic values.” Hoylman-Sigal secured the endorsements of Reps. Dan Goldman and Jerry Nadler in February. ...read more read less