Jumaane Williams: The Public Advocate Poised to Lead New York City

NEW YORK CITY — Jumaane Williams currently serves as the Public Advocate for New York City. According to city statutes, he would assume the role of interim mayor should Eric Adams step aside or be suspended by the governor. Williams, a former city councilman, has held the position of Public Advocate since winning a special election in 2019.

Williams ran for the office of Governor of New York in 2022, but was defeated by Kathy Hochul. The possibility of Adams facing federal charges has brought Williams back into the spotlight. He maintains he has done nothing wrong in the wake of allegations.

Born in Brooklyn to Grenadian immigrant parents, Williams has overcome personal challenges, including diagnoses of Tourette’s syndrome and ADHD, to earn a master’s degree from Brooklyn College. His path to public office began with his work as a community organizer at the Greater Flatbush Beacon School and later as the executive director of NYS Tenants & Neighbors, where he championed affordable and income-based housing solutions across New York City and state.

During his tenure as a member of the New York City Council representing the 45th District, Williams was a robust advocate for police reform legislation. He sponsored the Community Safety Act aimed at reforming the New York City Police Department policies, particularly in ending the abuse of stop-and-frisk tactics in communities of color and establishing an Inspector General‘s Office to oversee police conduct.

Williams co-chaired the Council’s Task Force to Combat Gun Violence, contributing to the creation of New York City’s Crisis Management System that supports Cure Violence Groups working to reduce shootings.

His advocacy extends to various social movements, having supported the Occupy Wall Street protests among other demonstrations. Williams has stated his commitment to fighting for improved policing, safer streets, affordable housing, and government transparency and accountability.