For Immediate Release
Sep 9, 2005

EMILY'S List Announces Support of Jessica Lappin for New York City Council

Backing signals confidence in committed public servant

New York, NY – EMILY's List, the nation's largest grassroots political network and financial resource for women running for elective office, is proud to announce its backing of Jessica Lappin in her bid for New York City Council, District 5. Through the Political Opportunity Program, an initiative to mobilize, train, and financially support candidates running at the state and local levels, EMILY's List has extended its support to Jessica Lappin.

"As both a public servant and political advisor, Jessica Lappin has dedicated her career to serving the people of her district," said Karen M. White, national political director for EMILY's List. "Lappin is an exceptional candidate who will continue with her important public service work as a city councilwoman from District 5."

Lappin served as the district chief of staff to New York City Council Speaker Gifford Miller and is now looking to replace him on the Council. Lappin's commitment to public service includes working on the boards of numerous community groups, including the Sutton Area Community group, the Advocacy Committee of Sanctuary for Families, and the Lenox Hill Democratic Club. Lappin has also facilitated the renovation and expansion of local schools, parks, and other community services during her seven years on Miller's staff.

"Jessica Lappin has worked tirelessly as a council advisor and as a community advocate and voters will recognize that she will work hard for them as their next city councilwoman," continued White. "On September 13th, we know the voters of City Council District 5 will place their trust in Lappin's leadership by electing her to the city council."

EMILY's List is the largest political action committee in the nation. EMILY's List has helped elect 61 pro-choice Democratic women to the U.S. House, 11 to the U.S. Senate, and eight governors. EMILY's List has also helped elect hundreds of pro-choice Democratic women to state legislatures, state constitutional offices, and key local offices. In 2001, EMILY's List expanded its support of pro-choice Democratic women candidates by establishing its Political Opportunity Program (POP). Through POP, EMILY's List is developing and nurturing the next generation of pro-choice Democratic women political leaders by investing in women candidates at the state and local levels.