Candidate Spotlight: Adrienne Adams

Among the frontrunners (alongside Zohran Mamdani) is Adrienne Adams, a longtime public servant with deep roots in Queens and a pragmatic approach to leadership. Whether you’re still deciding or just want to learn more about the people who could lead NYC, here’s what you need to know about her campaign.

Who Is Adrienne Adams?

Adrienne Adams currently serves as the Speaker of the New York City Council, representing District 28 in Southeast Queens. In 2022, she made history as the first Black woman elected Council Speaker—a powerful role that oversees the city’s legislative agenda and budget.

With over a decade of public service and community leadership, Adams is known for her measured, collaborative style and strong support for working-class New Yorkers.

What She Stands For

Adams’ platform focuses on stability, equity, and thoughtful investment in neighborhoods often overlooked by city government. Her priorities include:

• Affordable Housing Development
  Pushing for mixed-income housing projects and protections for long-term renters.

• Public Safety & Police Reform
  Supporting a balanced approach that includes increased accountability, community engagement, and investment in violence prevention programs.

• Mental Health Services
  Expanding access to care through school-based programs, crisis response teams, and culturally competent providers.

• Small Business Support
  Helping neighborhood businesses recover post-COVID with grants, reduced red tape, and city-backed financing.

• Climate Resilience
  Advocating for stormwater infrastructure, green building upgrades, and protection for flood-prone areas.

• Education Equity
  Investing in public school infrastructure, teacher training, and programs that bridge the racial and digital divides.

Adams positions herself as a leader who brings policy expertise and political pragmatism, often appealing to voters looking for experienced, steady leadership.

Who’s Backing Her?

Adams is supported by a mix of establishment and grassroots powerhouses:

• Queens County Democratic Party

• SEIU 1199, a major healthcare workers union

• NYC Public School Principals Union

• Congressman Gregory Meeks

Her endorsements reflect strong institutional support, especially from educators, public employees, and local labor organizations.

Campaign Funding Snapshot

Adrienne Adams has raised $6.2 million to date. Much of her funding comes from:

• Labor unions

• Small business coalitions

• Donors based in Queens and other outer boroughs
  She’s also benefited from NYC’s public matching funds program, which amplifies small donations.