The special election for Public Advocate is getting a special kind of NY1 debate. In conjunction with
@NYCVotes, Politico New York, and a wide array of co-sponsors, NY1 is a sponsoring a debate with seven candidates Wednesday at
@bmcc_cuny. The Public Advocate takes over if a mayor cannot complete their term, and functions as a city government watchdog and an ombudsperson for the public. But it's also widely viewed as a springboard to higher office.
Assemblyman Michael Blake says he wants the Public Advocate to have a permanent seat on the MTA Board.
City Councilman Rafael Espinal wants the Public Advocate to introduce legislation to create more housing.
Assemblyman Ron Kim wants to transform the Public Advocate's office to cancel, monetize, or write down debt.
Activist Nomiki Konst is calling for New Yorkers to have a $30 minimum wage by 2020.
Former City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito says she would be willing to sue city agencies as Public Advocate
Attorney Dawn Smalls wants the Public Advocate's office to shine a spotlight on homeless women and kids.
And City Councilman Jumaane Williams says he wants the Public Advocate to be able to subpoena city government and vote in the City Council.
Head to ny1.com to find out who else is running and to learn more about this unusual winter election. And be sure to watch the debate live on NY1 at 7 p.m.
#NYCVotes