Former Bronx assemblyman Michael Blake joins crowded NYC mayoral race

Michael Blake, a former Bronx assemblyman and Obama White House aide, has officially announced his candidacy for New York City mayor, adding another prominent name to an already competitive field.

Blake, a Bronx native with a deep political résumé, is the seventh major contender to challenge Mayor Eric Adams in next June’s Democratic primary. His rivals include City Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, Brooklyn State Senator Zellnor Myrie, Queens State Senator Jessica Ramos, Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, and attorney Jim Walden.

In a statement to *The New York Times*, Blake’s campaign emphasized his focus on the city’s pressing issues, including its soaring cost of living and quality-of-life concerns.

Blake, who represented the Bronx’s 79th District in the New York State Assembly from 2014 to 2020, brings a mix of state-level legislative experience and national political clout. He served as vice chair at-large for the Democratic National Committee from 2017 to 2021 and played a key role in passing progressive legislation, including the “raise the age” law, which ensured 16- and 17-year-olds are not tried as adults in criminal court.

Blake’s track record also includes efforts to streamline payments for small minority- and women-owned businesses contracting with the state, reducing payment times from 30 days to 15 days.

Despite his accomplishments, Blake’s previous bids for higher office were less successful. He lost to Rep. Ritchie Torres in the 2020 congressional race and placed fourth in a crowded 2019 special election for New York City public advocate.

As the primary approaches, Blake’s challenge will be to differentiate himself in a field of experienced candidates, many of whom are already sharpening their critiques of Mayor Adams’ administration.