New York City’s 2025 Primary Election Day is four days from Wednesday, and News 12 is introducing you to some of the candidates you’ll see on the ballot.

Elvis Santana is hoping to win the open City Council seat in District 17 and said he’s looking to provide full access and better benefits to people in the South Bronx.

“They go to Manhattan and see certain resources, but when they come back home [those resources are] not here,” said Santana.

The Democrat said his top priority is affordability.

“Of course, we’ve had affordable housing, but it’s not towards the people that actually live here, who need help with their current rent, their billing and how they feel their dignity is within the community,” said Santana.

He said his other key concerns are crime and “the health of the community.”

“Health goes many ways from trash to food deserts, to the CO2 that contributes to the Bronx and makes it one of the most unhealthiest counties throughout all of New York state,” said Santana.

The 31-year-old is a Dominican American who was born and raised in the district.

As a high school student, Santana was the recipient of former first lady Michelle Obama’s “Reach High Initiative.”

His experience includes working with nonprofits and local elected leaders, attending community meetings and fighting for tenants’ rights, as well as participating in community food and furniture giveaways.

“Those are the simple needs that we want to meet,” said Santana. “It may be a band aid, but for us it’s a solution now while we prepare for the big one later on.”

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

Click on News 12's Power & Politics section to check them out.