The individuals who helped found the Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club almost fifty years ago report that they had no particular reason for naming the club after Benjamin Franklin, but a consensus developed that the name was appropriate for a new, progressive Democratic Club.
Indeed, Franklin was an American original. He was an author, printer, scientist, inventor, diplomat, and statesman. He helped win America’s independence and helped draft the Constitution. Franklin was also one of the earliest progressives in American politics, and although he never held elective office, he influenced American political thought at a crucial time in American history.
The Benjamin Franklin Club has continued the tradition of progressive Democratic politics in the 81st Assembly District, which encompasses the neighborhoods of Riverdale, Kingsbridge, Van Cortlandt Village, Norwood, Woodlawn, and Wakefield. Past club members who were elected to office include Congressman Jonathan Bingham and Attorney General Robert Abrams.
Today the club continues to fight for progressive politics and policies: a smart, prudent government to improve peoples’ lives and benefit us all.
The local public officials who are club members and friends include: Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, Congressman Eliot Engel, Councilman G. Oliver Koppell, and State Senators Eric Schneiderman and Jeffrey Klein.
