The Bronx News Network recently asked candidates in 33rd District senate race to answer, in writing, a number of questions which we hope will shed light on where they stand politically, their position on key issues in the community, and what they would do if elected.

In the coming days we’re going to post their unedited answers on this blog, a few at a time. Last week, we published Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4. Today, we are focusing on social issues and legislative reform. Tomorrow, we will conclude our series with the candidates’ views on independent redistricting and member items (discretionary funds intended for local nonprofit groups).

There are four candidates in the race – Pedro Espada, Jr. (the incumbent), Daniel Padernacht, Gustavo Rivera, and Fernando Tirado – which is turning into one of the most watched in the city. Padernacht, Rivera, and Tirado got back to us with answers, but Espada didn’t. In an e-mail, a staffer of his wrote: “Thank you for the survey, however we will not be participating at this time. The Senator’s positions will be made available via other media, including his website and Facebook, at a later date.”