Jessica Ramos expressed deep disappointment at the rally organized by the WFP

In the campaign video, she openly declared her stance!

, and Administrator

2025 September 17 . 12:32 AM

2 min read

Jessica Ramos expressed significant disappointment during the WFP rally

Jessica Ramos expressed deep disappointment at the rally organized by the WFP

The Working Families Party (WFP) announced a slate of four mayoral candidates in March, leaving one spot vacant. Among the notable absentees was Jessica Ramos, a pro-labor progressive candidate.

Ramos, who brands herself as an independent-minded progressive, was a logical option for the fifth spot in the WFP's endorsement slate. However, the party was uncertain if Ramos would make the ballot during their endorsement decision process.

In a campaign video, Ramos emphasized the theme of belonging, expressing concern about feeling unwelcome in her own community and city. This message was a response to feelings of unwelcome inspired by Trump officials' actions. Ramos also defended Ras Baraka, who was arrested on May 9 at a protest outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center, and criticized immigration enforcement for "ravaging our communities."

Despite her strong stance on these issues, Ramos was not included in the WFP's endorsement slate. The party's co-director, Ana Mariá Archila, acknowledged Ramos' importance in the fight for immigrants but expressed sadness over watching her video. Archila also stated that Ramos was struggling with fundraising when the party was making its endorsement decision.

Ramos attended a May 10 WFP rally in Foley Square to support Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. However, she felt "awkward" and "unwelcome" at the rally, as she was not endorsed by the Working Families Party in their slate of mayoral candidates. Ana Mariá Archila briefly spotted Ramos at the rally and added her to the program of speakers, but couldn't find her later on.

The decision not to endorse Ramos was met with criticism, as progressives tried to block front-runner Andrew Cuomo. The WFP faced criticism for not endorsing five candidates, a common practice in previous elections.

As of now, it is unclear if the WFP plans to reconsider endorsing Ramos if she makes the ballot. Ramos' video did not mention any specific fundraising efforts or goals that she was struggling with, but her struggle to fundraise or garner major endorsements thus far in the mayoral race is well-documented.