A quiet but strategic political move may soon erupt into a defining moment in New York City politics. Gonzalo Duran, Vice Chairman of the Bronx Conservative Party and candidate for Public Advocate, is edging closer to what could become one of the most high-profile endorsements in recent city history — from none other than President Donald J. Trump.
According to sources close to Duran’s campaign, conversations are underway that could result in the President formally endorsing him — a political outsider with deep Bronx roots, a decorated Marine Corps background, and a growing influence in New York’s Conservative Party.
When reached for comment, Duran confirmed the endorsement process and emphasized his long-standing support for Trump:
“I have been linked to him since day one,” Duran said. “And I would like that to be reciprocated.”
But this was more than a polite request. On August 12, Duran issued a press release that bordered on a direct challenge to the political establishment, effectively calling on Trump to put his weight behind him. It was a bold move — and not without precedent.
A History of Unconventional Appeals
Duran’s political journey has rarely followed the rules of conventional New York politics, especially in a borough dominated by Democrats.
In April 2017, as CEO of the veteran nonprofit Devil Dog USA, he publicly urged Trump to support a Bronx-based veterans’ golf program. At the time, Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point was a political lightning rod, and Duran’s request was a strikingly unorthodox move.
By January 2024, Duran says he helped organize the Bronx Conservative Party meeting that endorsed Trump — even penning the official endorsement release.
“I knew that day my life would forever be linked to Trump — whether I wanted it to be or not,” he recalled.
In March 2024, Duran doubled down, publishing an open letter inviting Trump to the Bronx — a rarity in modern presidential politics.
“People laughed at me for asking,” Duran said. “But a few months later, he showed up. Not just once, but twice.”
Duran is quick to note that he does not take direct credit:
“I had nothing to do with it officially… but I like to think I helped manifest it in my own little way.”
Four Blocks Away, But Miles Apart
Still, the road to Trump’s endorsement hasn’t been straightforward.
In May 2024, Trump held a rally in Crotona Park, just four blocks from Duran’s home, nonprofit, and campaign office. At the time, Duran was running for Congress and serving as Conservative Party District Leader for the 79th Assembly District. Yet no local Republican or Conservative candidates were invited to speak.
“It was disappointing,” Duran admitted. “I took criticism for not being on stage, but maybe it just was not my time yet.”
A Balancing Act in Deep-Blue Territory
As a strong Trump supporter, Duran understands the challenges of carrying conservative values in one of the bluest counties in America.
“Trump’s policies are not always popular here,” he acknowledged. “But I believe they are necessary. I just wish they were rolled out more tactfully, especially in places like the Bronx.”
Still, he has remained firm on his platform — law and order, economic development, and veterans’ advocacy.
“One of my political goals, honestly, is for me and my campaign manager, Isaiah Vega, to sit down with the President. Even just for a few minutes. That would be the highlight of my political career.”
Conservative Leadership Steps In
After his August 12 statement, Duran’s phone rang. On the other end was State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar.
“He told me I had the full support of Bronx County Chairman Patrick McManus — and his own,” Duran said. “He even told me he wished he’d thought of it first.”
With that, the formal endorsement request was submitted to the White House for review.
Who Is Gonzalo Duran?
Duran is far more than just a candidate. He is an Iraq War Veteran, former Marine Sergeant, chaplain, community organizer, district leader, and Vice Chairman of the Bronx Conservative Party. Through his role as CEO of Devil Dog USA, he has helped thousands of veterans transition into civilian life while also building community programs in underserved neighborhoods.
In many ways, Duran represents a new brand of conservative in New York: principled, relentless, and unapologetically grassroots.
“Whether or not I get the President’s endorsement,” Duran said, “I’ll keep fighting the good fight. But yes… it would mean a lot.”
With citywide focus locked on the mayoral race, little attention has been given to other contests, including the Public Advocate’s office. Trump has avoided weighing in on the mayoral race — with Republican Curtis Sliwa even asking him to stay out. That leaves Duran, the only Trump-aligned candidate openly seeking support, as perhaps the clearest choice for the President if he decides to step deeper into New York City politics.
Photography by Today’s Pixels
