Mon Sep 09 16:05:17 UTC 2024: ## Brad Lander Launches Mayoral Bid, Targeting Eric Adams’ Record on Housing and Public Safety

**New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has officially launched his campaign for Mayor, challenging incumbent Eric Adams in next year’s election.** Lander, a prominent progressive Democrat, has positioned himself as the leading critic of Adams’ handling of the city’s issues, particularly housing affordability and public safety.

Lander, who previously served as a City Council member representing Park Slope, highlights his experience in urban planning and his commitment to affordable housing. He cites his success in rezoning the Gowanus neighborhood, a project that brought thousands of new housing units and investments in public housing.

“I hope to do for New York City what I did for Gowanus – setting the table for genuinely inclusive growth that produces a more thriving and affordable city,” Lander stated in an interview with Commercial Observer.

Lander has been critical of Adams’ record, citing rising rents, slow progress on crime reduction, and the use of shelters for asylum seekers. He specifically criticizes the city’s handling of homeless sweeps, claiming they have been ineffective and inhumane.

“He promised to get stuff done, but he’s not getting the stuff done that matters to New Yorkers,” Lander stated.

Lander’s campaign focuses on building a more affordable city through increased housing supply, tackling the affordability crisis, and revitalizing the city’s commercial districts. He proposes a significant reboot for homeownership, highlighting the need for a program similar to the Mitchell-Lama program, which allowed working families to afford homes in newly built developments.

Lander also expresses concerns about the city’s fiscal management, particularly the handling of the budget. He criticizes the administration for blaming asylum seekers for budget woes and for resorting to temporary measures to address the city’s financial challenges.

The mayoral race is expected to be a closely contested one. While Adams currently holds a significant financial advantage, Lander brings a strong track record of progressive activism and a clear vision for the city’s future.

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