By Maria Markou, District Leader, Part 36A, Astoria
The views expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Hellenic News of America.
At the start of the New Year, I witnessed firsthand what I believe marks a significant turning point for the Democratic Party in Queens.
On January 5, 2026, the Queens County Democratic Party convened a meeting at its headquarters with District Leaders from Parts 36A and 36B to formally nominate Diana Moreno, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), to fill the vacant New York State Assembly seat previously held by Zohran Mamdani. In my view, this decision was made not to best serve the people of Queens, but to accommodate the political direction favored by the incoming DSA-aligned Mayor of New York City.
For this reason, as District Leader of Part 36A for Astoria, Queens, I voted a firm NO and formally objected to the nomination.
This nomination does not reflect my political identity or my values. I am not affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America. I have always identified as a Democrat who believes deeply in the core principles of the Democratic Party: democracy, equality, accountability, social justice, and responsible governance.
My objection was not personal, nor was it an attack on individuals within the DSA. It was a principled stance. Political nominations should align with the values and ideological commitments of those who are expected to support them. In this instance, that alignment did not exist.
I believe elected leaders and party officials should serve the people they represent—not seek to please political factions in hopes of returning favors or securing future influence. My role is to defend the truth and advocate for the rights of all New Yorkers, not to advance agendas that diverge from the foundational principles of the Democratic Party as I understand them.
I remain committed to open dialogue, democratic values, and policies that strengthen our institutions, protect individual rights, and promote fairness and opportunity for all. My stance reflects integrity, transparency, and respect for the democratic process.
After much reflection, I have also decided not to seek re-election as District Leader. I do not wish to remain part of an organization that, in my view, no longer upholds its core democratic values or demonstrates the courage to engage in the most important fights facing our communities.
I am, and will continue to be, a fighter for all New Yorkers, not a pleaser for a select few.
Maria Markou
District Leader, Part 36A
Astoria, Queens
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