Bill de Blasio has served as the Mayor of New York City since 2014. Before his election, served as New York City’s Public Advocate and as a member of the city council.
Previous Work Around Poverty and Opportunity:
- Ran for mayor under a series of progressive positions on issues such as taxes, education and policing.
- Has attempted to introduce a new “millionaires’ tax” on single earners making over $500,000 a year and couples making over $1,000,000 a year.
On the Issues
Jobs: Opposes NAFTA and has been a vocal critic of the proposed Trans Pacific Partnership.
Affordable Housing: Has emphasized affordable housing as mayor. In 2014 proposed 20,000 new below-market-rate units over the next 10 years and then expanded that target to 30,000 by 2026.
Health Care/Insurance: Beginning in August, will institute free health coverage for undocumented immigrants. Strong supporter of Medicare for All.
Education: As mayor, implemented a universal preschool program for New Yorkers.
Criminal Justice: Signed the Criminal Justice Reform Act into law, which changed the way New York City treated minor offenses and ended the use of “stop and frisk” in New York City. Also supports the elimination of cash bail.
Minimum Wage: Supports raising minimum wage nationally. In New York City, increased the minimum wage to $15 an hour.
Safety Net: Proposed a “Retirement Security for All” program in New York, which would include a public retirement plan for New Yorkers who are not offered an option through work.
Children/Families: As mayor, instituted paid sick leave for temporary workers and a minimum of 10 days of paid personal leave for all workers.
Taxes/Tax Credits: Called for a 70 percent marginal tax rate on the highest income earners.
News Articles:
“Mayor Bill de Blasio Enters 2020 Race for President” (The New York Times: 5/16/19)
“New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is Running for President” (Vox: 5/16/19)