Jumaane Williams Announces Bid for Public Advocate

City Councilman Jumaane Williams announced, on Tuesday, a bid for the New York City Public Advocate seat.

The three-term Councilman of the 45th council district (East Flatbush, Flatbush, Flatlands, Marine Park, and Midwood) is looking to take the would-be vacant seat of current Public Advocate Leticia James. James is favored to win the race for New York State Attorney General.

“I have always felt that my job as an activist elected official has been to make sure the voices of all New Yorkers are lifted up, and to create the kinds of changes that have a tangible positive impact on their lives,” Williams said.

The position acts as a watchdog over the mayor and New York City agencies and investigates complaints about city agencies, according to the public advocate website.

Last month, Williams made an unsuccessful bid for lieutenant governor against the incumbent, Kathy Hochul. Williams campaigned to serve as a “watchdog” and “public advocate” over Gov. Cuomo throughout the campaign often suggesting the role had been a series of ribbon-cutting lapses since Hochul’s tenure.

“Too many working-class New Yorkers are struggling, and this city belongs to them- not just to the rich or real estate lobby,”  This is our New York and it’s time to take it back. As Public Advocate, I will fight to make this city affordable, equitable and just for the many, not the few.”