María Quiñones-Sánchez is a fierce advocate for City Council’s 7th District | Endorsement

The 2019 primary is a tale of two council races: the exciting, vibrant newcomers bringing energy to the at-large race, and the soporific district races, which could end up with reelected incumbents in every seat — including the seat of Bobby Henon, who was indicted in a federal corruption case a few months ago and is running unopposed. All ten incumbents are seeking reelection, with only five challenged.

We invited candidates in those districts to answer a questionnaire and participate in an endorsement interview.

Residents of the 7th District have a fierce advocate in María Quiñones-Sánchez. She represents Kensington, which bears the brunt of the opioid crisis. While her view doesn’t always align with this board — such as opposition to the soda tax — Sánchez is willing to listen, discuss, and evolve on issues. Recently she traveled to Canada to learn more about supervised injection sites, although she opposes one in her district. A leader on housing in Council, she introduced a bold mandatory inclusionary zoning bill and helped secure extra funds for the Housing Trust Fund.

Rep. Angel Cruz refused to participate in the endorsement process or public debates. Voters should return the favor and ignore him as well.

» Read more about the Inquirer’s endorsement process

» See the full list of Inquirer endorsements for Philly’s 2019 municipal primary