As the New York City Council primaries draw closer, News 12 spoke to the Republican candidates in the running.

Richie Barsamian, a lifelong Brooklyn resident, hopes to represent neighborhoods, including Coney Island, Bay Ridge and Sea Gate.

“I love this city. I love the borough of Brooklyn,” Barsamian told News 12. “I am a proud member of the NYPD.”

Barsamian is a first-generation American and former transit officer. He says his top priority is public safety — particularly in the city’s transportation system.

“We're at approximately 2,700 members dedicated to the transit system. That is part of the crisis,” he said. “We must immediately, immediately prioritize — minimum as a starting point — 5,000 police officers.”

He believes more police presence in subways and on the streets will translate into safer communities across the district.

Barsamian also emphasized the importance of neighborhood quality of life, highlighting a platform focused on cleanliness and infrastructure.

“Graffiti removal, rodent control, sanitation — removal so that our corner wastebaskets are not overflowing with open and ripped open bags of garbage,” he said.

Barsamian is proposing a senior-focused transportation initiative for older residents.

“I want to provide a no-charge bus service to all New Yorkers 65 and older,” he added.

Barsamian also currently serves as chairman of the Brooklyn Republican Party. He says his candidacy is rooted in his desire to give back to the neighborhoods that raised him.

The New York City Council primaries are set for June 25.

News 12 requested interviews with all the top-funded candidates in the district race.

Go to the Power & Politics section of the website to check them out.