FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

February 7, 2024                                                                                                  

Contact: info@wagstaffforda.com

White Plains, N.Y. - William O. Wagstaff III, running for Westchester District Attorney, further cemented his status as the Democratic frontrunner with today’s endorsements from Assemblymember Chris Burdick, the Mayor of the City of Peekskill, Vivian C. McKenzie, and the Westchester County Board of Legislators Majority Leader Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D), alongside a 100% pro-choice rating by Choice Matters.

“I am proud to endorse William Wagstaff to be the next DA of Westchester County. William’s life story allows him to understand the complexities surrounding many of the diverse communities here in Peekskill, and throughout Westchester County,” said Peekskill Mayor Vivian C. McKenzie. “We need a District Attorney that will be working in the community for crime prevention and working to fight bias, and William will be that person. He’s the person we need to be the chief law enforcement officer in Westchester County.”

Wagstaff, a respected attorney, proven civil rights advocate, and steadfast social justice champion, welcomed the endorsement from Mayor McKenzie, stating, “I’m honored to be endorsed by Mayor McKenzie, a trailblazing leader who shares an understanding of how to deliver equitable results for our diverse communities in Westchester County.” 

McKenzie made history as the first Black woman elected as Mayor of Peekskill, and Wagstaff is running to become the first Black District Attorney for Westchester County. 

"There are few people who enter the public service arena who exemplify a deep commitment to equity and community like William Wagstaff,” said Assemblymember Chris Burdick (D - 93rd AD). 

“As we look to what the Westchester County District Attorney's office can and should be in the years to come, he has the perspective, experience, and innovative ideas needed to make this office something truly special,” added the Assemblymember (who represents the towns of Bedford, Harrison, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, New Castle, North Castle, North Salem, Pound Ridge and approximately half the city of White Plains.)

Deeply appreciative of Assemblymember Burdick’s endorsement, Wagstaff noted it compliments his deep commitment to community and justice; currently serving as Special Prosecutor for Police Discipline in Mount Vernon, Chair of the African American Men of Westchester Mentoring Committee, and also being on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Westchester. 

Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, the Majority Leader of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, also praised Wagstaff, stating, “William O. Wagstaff III is a standout choice for District Attorney of Westchester County, bringing a fresh perspective and unwavering commitment to justice. His dedication to community safety and civil rights makes him the ideal candidate to lead Westchester into a new era of justice. Electing William ensures a more equitable, transparent, and effective legal system for all residents.” 

“I’m grateful for Majority Leader Woodson-Samuels’ support and confidence in my vision to make Westchester County safer, stronger, and fairer with my unique background and fresh perspective,” Wagstaff said. 

Wagstaff, a respected attorney who also holds an MBA from Fordham, added that “the status quo fails to meet the needs of Westchester County” and touted his implementation of data-driven solutions to address gun violence, hate crimes, domestic violence, and property crimes to “deliver real results instead of rhetoric.”

Wagstaff also expressed admiration for a 100% pro-choice rating from Choice Matters, stating, “I stand firm in my commitment to upholding reproductive rights and protecting the freedom to choose. Together, we will ensure everyone’s right to reproductive freedom and justice is respected and protected with my unrelenting support as your next DA.”

Wagstaff, who also recently received endorsements from a broad coalition of Westchester County Councilmembers, said he is “deeply thankful and honored by the diverse cross-county support.” 

Wagstaff, who has raised more than $100,000 so far for his 2024 campaign, is poised as the frontrunner of the three candidates vying for the Westchester County Democratic County Committee nomination, to be announced at the Party’s convention next Monday, February 12th. 

“Westchester needs a District Attorney who will prioritize protecting our communities and standing up for victims, while at the same time recognizing that our system does not always lead to just outcomes. My steadfast commitment to social justice and proven ability to deliver real results will make the District Attorney’s office a vehicle for the impactful change we need,” Wagstaff concluded. 

About William:  

William O. Wagstaff III is a respected attorney who has represented victims in some of the most high-profile civil rights cases in recent history. 

William’s commitment to his community is equal to his commitment to justice; he served as Special Prosecutor for Police Disciplinary Hearings, serves as Chair of the African American Men of Westchester Mentoring Committee, and is on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Westchester.

Wagstaff’s civil rights advocacy, legal experience, and ability to effect change are earning him broad support across Westchester County for District Attorney as his campaign continues to build momentum as a frontrunner ahead of the June Democratic Primary. 

Born and raised in Mount Vernon and a lifelong Westchester resident, he is now raising two great kids with his wife Christina, who is expecting.

For more information visit www.wagstaffforda.com. 

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