Rep. Ritchie Torres is seeking reelection in New York’s 15th Congressional District, telling News 12 his campaign is focused on addressing affordability and supporting working families across the Bronx.
“I’m Ritchie Torres and I’m the son of the Bronx,” Torres said.
From growing up in the Throggs Neck Houses to serving in Congress, Torres said his personal journey has shaped his commitment to public service.
“Nothing has been handed to me on a silver platter. I’ve had to fight for everything in my life and fighting for the Bronx has been the greatest mission in my life,” he said.
Torres said many of the voters he speaks with are struggling to make ends meet as the cost of living continues to rise.
“I have constituents who, after paying all their bills, are living on $20 a day. The notion of cutting health care and food that, to me, is a profound betrayal of working families,” Torres said.
The congressman said one of the accomplishments he is most proud of is helping advocate for an expansion of the Child Tax Credit during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“If you lift a child out of poverty, you’re changing the trajectory of the child’s life forever,” he said.
As voters prepare to cast their ballots, Torres said he hopes Bronx residents remember where he came from and who he is fighting for.
“I’m one of you, and that, I’m gonna fight for you, because the Bronx is my home. Always has been and always will be,” Torres said.
Early voting begins June 13, and Election Day is June 23.
