Francisco Marte, the co-founder of United Bodegas of America, has resigned from his position following the organization’s endorsement of Zohran Mamdani, a prominent political figure in New York City. Marte, who previously served as the president of the Bodega and Small Business Association, recently joined 'Fox & Friends First' to voice his concerns about rising crime rates in the city. His resignation comes as tensions mount within the bodega community, with some members expressing apprehension over the endorsement’s potential implications on the business landscape.
Marte’s decision to resign is believed to be influenced by the recent political endorsements and the associated risks they may pose to the bodega sector. The endorsement of Mamdani, who represents the 11th Congressional District, has sparked internal discussions within United Bodegas of America, with some members questioning the alignment of the endorsement with the organization’s business interests. This development highlights the complex relationship between political endorsements and the economic strategies of local business groups.
The timing of Marte’s resignation is noteworthy, given the increased scrutiny on bodega owners and the challenges they face in maintaining operational stability. As the city’s bodega community continues to navigate political and economic pressures, the resignation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between political engagement and business sustainability. Further developments are expected as the situation unfolds, with implications for both the bodega sector and the political landscape in New York City.