The Progressive Caucus of the New York City Council is a bloc of progressive New York City Council Members that was formed in 2009. In 2010, the Caucus consisted of 12 members, nearly 25% of the 51-member New York City Council. As of 2016, the caucus has grown to 16 members.
Contents
Statement of Principles
The Progressive Caucus' stated objective is to create a "more just and equal New York City, combating all forms of discrimination, and advancing policies that offer genuine opportunities to all New Yorkers, especially those who have been left out of our society's prosperity." The Caucus' stated principles prioritize (i) a "fair budget," (ii) a progressive economic policy, (iii) "safe, decent, affordable housing," (iv) "high-quality public education," (v) "a more sustainable and environmentally just city," (vi) "strong, vibrant, diverse neighborhoods," (vii) a criminal justice system focused on "prevention, alternatives-to-incarceration, parternship with communities, and police accountability," (viii) "full civil rights for all New Yorkers," and (ix) a restoration of "confidence and participation of government" and "strengthening the practice of local democracy".
History
According to the Caucus website, in 2009, the Progressive Caucus was formed in order to promote policies focused on building "a more just and equal New York City." The Caucus initially consisted of 12 members, co-chaired by Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn) and Melissa Mark-Viverito (D-Manhattan/Bronx).
Most notably, the caucus in July 2016 encouraged New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to sign an anti-Airbnb bill into law. This bill, the first of its kind as it pertained to regulation of Airbnb, was signed into law in the state of New York on October 21, 2016. Also, in November 2016, the caucus endorsed Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison for chairman of the Democratic National Committee. Specifically, the Caucus chose to support Ellison because of his focus on promoting progressive policy at the local level of government, together with an understanding of the importance of uniting local, state and federal governments.
Current members
Membership of the 2014-2017 term include the following members: