Gonzalo Duran

Where Duran stands

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

An elected official must have the courage to make the tough decisions that truly benefit the people — not the political insiders or special interests. They must have the integrity to stand firm in their values, even when it’s unpopular or inconvenient. And above all, they must remember that public office is not about power — it’s about service. Our duty is to listen to the people, fight for their needs, and protect their rights. It means standing up against corruption, resisting temptation, and putting community over self. Far too many have treated public service as a stepping stone for personal ambition, and that’s why our city has suffered. True leadership means being a voice for those who are unheard, restoring faith in our government, and leading with heart, courage, and conviction.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I just want it to be known that I worked hard to improve my beloved Bronx.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I believe courage is the most important quality an elected official can possess. When entrusted with power, one must have the strength to stand firm, to fight for the people, and to rise above the temptations that test us all. Too many have sought office for the wrong reasons—and that is why we’ve seen such poor leadership in our generation. Our city is struggling, and it will continue to decline unless the people begin to make wiser, more courageous choices.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I would want to be Batman. He represents the peak of human potential — a symbol of discipline, resilience, and relentless determination. Yet beneath the mask, he also reflects a truth many of us live: how easy it is to lose ourselves in our work and our mission. Despite facing others with greater power, wealth, or abilities, Batman continues to prevail through sheer will, intellect, and courage. That resonates deeply with me. I see a reflection of myself in that struggle — the drive to push beyond limits, to keep fighting even when the odds are stacked high, and to stay true to a purpose larger than myself.