State Sen. Jessica Ramos Enters NYC Mayoral Race

On Friday, New York State Senator Jessica Ramos declared her intention to run for mayor of New York City, challenging the incumbent Eric Adams in the upcoming elections next year.

Ramos, who previously served as a communications aide to former NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, faces a challenging field as she enters the race against several other candidates. Elected to the state legislature in 2018, she’s been known for her outspoken nature, often clashing with prominent progressive figures such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Among the other declared candidates are New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, and State Senator Zellnor Myrie. The current mayor, Eric Adams, is grappling with scandals that have overshadowed his term, creating a tumultuous political landscape.

Ramos expressed her concerns about the current state of the city, stating, “The city overwhelmingly is in desperate need to feel faith in their institutions again. All of the scandals aside, the basic functions of government need to be executed.”

As the daughter of Colombian immigrants, Ramos represents a diverse Senate district that includes neighborhoods such as Corona, East Elmhurst, Flushing, and Jackson Heights. She aims to emphasize crucial issues such as affordable housing and support for the working class in her campaign.

In her campaign announcement, Ramos highlighted her commitment to increasing the minimum wage, noting, “I raised the minimum wage and tied it to inflation. It’s going to go up every year because of my bill.” She also pointed to her efforts in addressing the childcare crisis, ensuring greater access and affordability for families.

Ramos believes her legislative record, combined with her passion for her community, makes her a viable choice for voters. She argued, “I think that’s a strong record together with my love for people and love for my city should be palatable for voters.”

The 2024 mayoral race is expected to be competitive, with Ramos positioning herself as a candidate focused on rebuilding trust in city institutions and addressing pressing local issues. Her experience in state legislature may give her a unique perspective on the challenges facing New Yorkers.

As the election approaches, Ramos will likely intensify her campaign efforts, engaging with constituents to gain support while navigating the complexities of a crowded field.

With the political atmosphere heating up in New York City, all eyes will be on how Ramos and other candidates present their visions for a city seeking renewal and stability after a difficult term for the current mayor.