Karines Reyes

Karines Reyes is a Dominican-American politician and nurse currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 87th district. A member of the Democratic Party, she has been in office since 2019 and is known for her commitment to healthcare and community issues. Reyes's background as a nurse informs her legislative priorities, particularly in health-related matters, and she has become an influential figure in her district, which encompasses areas such as Parkchester and Castle Hill in the Bronx.

Early life and career

Karines Reyes was born on October 12, 1985, in the Dominican Republic. She is the daughter of a Dominican mother and a Puerto Rican father. At the age of six, Reyes emigrated to the United States, settling in the Bronx, New York. This early experience of moving to a new country has shaped her perspective on community and public service. Reyes pursued her education in nursing, culminating in a degree obtained in 2013. Following her graduation, she began her professional career as an oncology nurse at Montefiore Medical Center, a prominent healthcare institution in the Bronx, where she has worked since 2014. Her background in nursing has provided her with a deep understanding of the healthcare system and the challenges faced by patients and healthcare providers alike.

Reyes's early career was marked by her dedication to patient care and advocacy within the healthcare sector. Her experiences as a nurse have not only equipped her with practical skills but have also instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility toward her community. This commitment to public health and patient advocacy would later influence her legislative priorities and initiatives as she transitioned into a political career.

Legislative service

In June 2018, Reyes announced her candidacy for the New York State Assembly, seeking to represent the 87th district, which had been vacated by Luis R. Sepúlveda after he was elected to the State Senate in a special election. Reyes entered a competitive primary race, facing two other Democratic candidates. Demonstrating significant support within her party, she won the primary election in September 2018. Following her primary victory, Reyes advanced to the general election, where she faced Republican candidate Alpheaus Marcus. In a decisive victory, Reyes secured her position in the Assembly with a substantial majority of the vote.

Since taking office in 2019, Reyes has focused on a range of issues pertinent to her constituents, leveraging her background in healthcare to inform her legislative agenda. Her tenure has been characterized by an emphasis on health equity, access to quality healthcare, and support for vulnerable populations. Reyes's role in the Assembly has allowed her to advocate for policies that address the specific needs of her district, which includes diverse communities in the Bronx.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New York State Assembly, Karines Reyes has concentrated her efforts on several key policy areas, with a particular focus on healthcare, education, and social justice. Her professional experience as a nurse has been instrumental in shaping her approach to health-related legislation. Reyes has advocated for increased access to healthcare services, particularly for low-income families and marginalized communities. She has also been involved in discussions surrounding healthcare reform, aiming to improve the overall quality of care available to residents of her district.

In addition to healthcare, Reyes has championed educational initiatives that seek to enhance opportunities for students in the Bronx. Recognizing the challenges faced by local schools, she has supported measures aimed at increasing funding for education and improving resources for teachers and students alike. Reyes believes that a strong educational foundation is crucial for the future success of children in her district.

Reyes's legislative work also encompasses broader social issues, including housing, public safety, and economic development. She has been an advocate for affordable housing initiatives, understanding the importance of stable living conditions for families in her district. Her commitment to social justice is evident in her support for policies that seek to address systemic inequalities and promote equity across various sectors.

The 87th district, which Reyes represents, includes neighborhoods such as Parkchester and Castle Hill, characterized by a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage. The district faces unique challenges, including economic disparities and access to essential services. Reyes's engagement with her constituents has been a key aspect of her legislative approach, as she seeks to address their concerns and represent their interests effectively.

In summary, Karines Reyes's journey from a young immigrant to a state legislator reflects her dedication to public service and her commitment to improving the lives of those in her community. Her background in nursing informs her legislative priorities, particularly in healthcare, education, and social justice. As she continues to serve in the New York State Assembly, Reyes remains focused on advocating for the needs of her constituents in the 87th district.