Duran served eight years in the United States Marine Corps, including a deployment to Iraq in 2008.[8] He attained the rank of Sergeant before leaving active duty in 2011.[9]
Devil Dog USA
In 2013, Duran founded Devil Dog USA, a nonprofit organization that provides support services and advocacy for military veterans transitioning to civilian life.[10][11] Beginning in 2014, the organization engaged in advocacy related to housing access for student veterans, including issues surrounding the acceptance of G.I. Bill housing allowances as income by landlords.[12]
The organization organized events and partnered with other veteran organizations to address housing challenges facing veterans.[13][14] Duran also used his family home as part of advocacy efforts related to student veteran housing.[15][16]
In 2017, the New York City Council passed legislation clarifying that G.I. Bill housing allowances qualify as lawful income under the New York City Human Rights Law.[17]
By 2023, Devil Dog USA had expanded operations to other states and opened an additional office for its tenth anniversary.[18][19][20]
Political activity
Party leadership
Duran identifies as a moderate conservative. He was initially registered as a Democrat and previously sought public office as a Democrat but did not obtain ballot access.[21] After joining the Conservative Party, he successfully gained ballot access and became one of the party’s most visible leaders.[22] He serves as Vice Chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party and as a District Leader for New York’s 79th Assembly District.[23] Since 2023, Duran has participated in and organized political forums throughout the Bronx.[24][25][26]
Campaigns
2023
In 2023, Duran ran for the New York City Council in District 17 as a Democrat, challenging the incumbent, Rafael Salamanca Jr.[27] His nominating petitions were challenged by the Bronx Democratic Party, resulting in his removal from the Democratic primary ballot. Following his removal, Duran accused the Bronx Democratic Party of political gatekeeping.[28]
Duran continued his candidacy on the Conservative Party line but was unsuccessful in the general election, receiving 4.2% of the vote, or 182 votes.[29]
During the campaign, Duran faced allegations of conflicts of interest related to his journalism and media activities while campaigning and publicly supporting other candidates. Duran denied the allegations, stating that his media work did not present a conflict of interest with the city’s press office or any other organizations with which he was affiliated. He also argued that conservative and lesser known candidates receive disproportionately limited media coverage.[32]
A scheduled debate for the 2025 New York City Public Advocate race was canceled after Williams declined to participate, citing that Duran and another challenger had not qualified for New York City’s publicmatching funds.[35] In place of the debate, NY1 aired an extended interview segment and discussed the circumstances surrounding the cancellation.[36]
Political positions
Duran’s campaigns included support for voter identification requirements, legal immigration, and efforts to unify conservative organizations in New York City.[37][38][39]
Media presence
Duran has written columns for The Bronx Chronicle, Careers in Government and other publications.[40][41] He has hosted public-access television programs, including Vet Talk and Political Chit Chat, broadcast on BronxNet and Manhattan Neighborhood Network.[42][43] He has also appeared as a commentator in local and national media on veterans’ issues and New York City politics.[44][45][46]
Recognition
Duran has received recognition for his community service and veteran advocacy. In 2013, he participated in the ceremonial ringing of the Nasdaq opening bell.[47] In 2014, he was awarded the “Veteran of the Year” medal by the Bronx Chamber of Commerce.[48] In 2016, he was named “Father of the Year” by the New York City Fatherhood Coalition.[49]
Personal life
Duran resides in the Bronx and has two children.[50] He has been ordained by the New York State Chaplain Workers Federation.[51]
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