Holly Pretsky

2 weeks ago | cityandstateny.com | Holly Pretsky

The political action committee affiliated with Airbnb is upping its spending in New York City local elections, the group exclusively told City & State. In February, the short-term rental giant put $5 million into its PAC, called Affordable New York. It is now planning to double that sum to help elect sympathetic candidates in city elections taking place this year and next year at the state level. “Airbnb is just getting started,” Policy Director Nathan Rotman said in a statement.

3 weeks ago | cityandstateny.com | Holly Pretsky

The “Labor Strong” coalition of five influential labor unions is announcing its second round of New York City Council endorsements Friday, the coalition exclusively told City & State. The coalition includes building service workers union 32BJ SEIU, public employees union District Council 37, the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, the New York State Nurses Association and the Communications Workers of America District 1.

1 month ago | cityandstateny.com | Holly Pretsky

The second-most powerful person in New York City politics is not elevated to the role by the voters of New York City. The speaker of the New York City Council, currently Adrienne Adams, has the authority to set the council’s agenda, which means she has unmatched influence on what becomes New York City law. With a little maneuvering, she can convene a commission to change the city charter, subpoena members of the mayor’s administration and override mayoral vetoes.

1 month ago | cityandstateny.com | Annie McDonough |Holly Pretsky

Sponsor Message Sponsor Message Sponsor Message Sponsor Message New York City Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers had a new seat in the chamber at the City Council stated meeting Thursday. Previously, the majority whip sat at the right hand of Speaker Adrienne Adams. Thursday, she had moved one seat over, and her old seat was occupied by Council Member Diana Ayala, who is deputy speaker.

1 month ago | cityandstateny.com | Sahalie Donaldson |Annie McDonough |Holly Pretsky

Eric Adams Eric Adams / Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office His ideological stance in brief: Conservative, pro-business Democrat who is now running as an independent candidate. Lately more likely to criticize progressives than the Trump administration. Major endorsements: None reported yet. Fundraising: $4.4 million raised so far. He has an estimated $3 million in the bank, as of March 17. He has been denied public matching funds so far. What is he running on?