What the Mayor Actually Does in NYC

Before you vote, make sure you understand what the mayor can and can’t do. It's more powerful than many people realize.

What the Mayor Can Do

• Oversees city agencies (NYPD, FDNY, DOE, Housing, Sanitation, etc.)

• Proposes the city’s $100+ billion budget

• Appoints key leaders (like the schools chancellor)

• Signs or vetoes laws passed by City Council

• Declares states of emergency and sets public safety policy

What the Mayor Can't Do

• Override state or federal laws

• Set MTA fares (that’s controlled by the state)

• Directly legislate—only City Council can pass laws

The mayor has huge influence, especially over housing, policing, education, and climate action—so choose someone whose values align with yours.