Borough President Race Heats Up in Manhattan
The competition for Manhattan’s borough president is becoming increasingly intense, particularly around topics like public safety and the recent changes to bail laws.
Key figures in this Democratic primary include State Senator Brad Hoylman-Cigal and City Councilman Keith Powers. Recently, Powers criticized Hoylman-Cigal for backing modifications to Albany’s bail law, arguing that lawmakers reacted too late.
“When polls indicate that 80% of New Yorkers are concerned about public safety, dismissing these worries shows a disconnect with the people of Manhattan,” Powers remarked.
Powers has proposed a public safety strategy aimed at bolstering the number of police officers in Manhattan’s schools, relocating dangerous individuals, and streamlining the discovery process for prosecutors and defense attorneys.
“We’ve been dealing with a mental health crisis lately, and too many elected officials seem out of touch with what New Yorkers are experiencing,” he mentioned.
In response, Hoylman-Cigal emphasized that his primary concerns are housing, quality of life, public safety, and education.
“I’m not sure what my opponent has done regarding public safety, especially after the law passed,” Hoylman-Cigal responded, highlighting his support for initiatives targeting serial shoplifting and increasing awareness of hate crimes.
He defended his original endorsement of the bail reform, noting it was done with several legitimate concerns in mind and acknowledged his backing of subsequent reform efforts related to discovery and mental health standards.
“As a proud liberal Democrat, I advocate for the constitution and the right to a free and fair trial,” he stated.
Powers has garnered significant support from unions, including the 32BJ SEIU, Hotel Trades Council, and United Federation of Teachers. Meanwhile, Hoylman-Cigal boasts the backing of three former Manhattan borough presidents and various political figures.
The race also includes newcomer Dr. Calvin Smith, who is stepping into the political arena.
In Brooklyn, Borough President Antonio Reynoso faces little challenge, avoiding issues with former candidate Kari Edwards, and in the Bronx, Vanessa Gibson is being contested by city councilor Rafael Salamanca.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards has no major contenders, although three Republican candidates are aiming to challenge him. On Staten Island, incumbent Vito Fossella faces General Democrat Michael Colombo but lacks a significant opponent.
The primary election is set for June 24th.
