Political Comebacks in NYC
Anthony Weiner isn’t the only controversial figure aiming to reclaim a position on the city council.
Former council members Andy King and Reuben Wills are looking for a chance to get back on the ballot in the Democratic primary after being ousted due to scandals.
King, a former councilman from the Bronx, was removed from his position in 2020 following numerous fraud allegations.
There were claims from the Ethics Panel that he harassed female staff, mistreated other employees, and received a $2,000 kickback. Additionally, he disregarded the Chamber of Commerce’s disciplinary efforts.
King has denied these allegations and is now challenging the popular incumbent, Kevin Riley, for his old seat in the 12th district.
“I’ll apologize if I upset anyone,” King told the Post, adding, “The residents of District 12 want me to take on Kevin Riley.” He compared the campaign to playing basketball: “You play to the buzzer. I think we have chances.”
He emphasized public safety and cleanliness as his primary concerns, stating, “The NYPD is our family.” He added, “I’ve never supported taking anything from the police.”
Meanwhile, Riley was elected in 2021 and has a decade of experience working alongside assembly speakers, including fellow Bronxite Carl Heastie. He’s backed by several significant trade unions, including SEIU 1199, which represents healthcare workers, and others like the Construction Workers’ Union Local 32 BJ and District Council 37, which represents city employees.
“I have faith that the community will make the right choice,” Riley expressed.
The district encompasses various neighborhoods, including Williams Bridge, Bronxwood, and Eastchester Baychester.
On the other hand, Wills is campaigning for his old seat in the 28th district of southeast Queens, a position currently held by Council Chairman Adrian Adams, who cannot seek reelection due to term limits. Instead, Adams is running for the Democratic mayoral nomination.
Wills was convicted of corruption in 2017 for misusing public funds for personal expenses and spent eight months in prison. However, his conviction was overturned on appeal in 2021, and he’s now seeking to rebuild his reputation.
Wills did not comment through his campaign representatives.
Among his competitors is Tyrell “Ty” Hankerson, Adams’ Chief of Staff and longtime aide.
Meanwhile, Anthony Weiner, who has been scarred by scandal after serving 21 months for sexting minors, is trying to make a comeback. He’s pursuing the term-limited seat currently held by Carlina Rivera in District 2 of Manhattan, which includes parts of the East Village and Lower East Side.
He faces stiff competition from state legislator Harvey Epstein and former Assistant Mayor de Blasio’s aide Sarah Batsch.
