Opinion: Speaker with a smart voice

Innovative and Experienced Leadership

The City Council made a wise choice in selecting Julie Menin as their leader. Known for her innovative, pragmatic approach and extensive experience, Menin is viewed as a necessary moderate voice, expected to serve as a balanced counterweight to Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's ambitious socialist agenda.

Building Consensus and Support

Julie Menin secured the backing of at least 36 current and incoming Council members, surpassing the needed majority to become the next Speaker. Her support comes from a diverse coalition including powerful unions and key political figures, reflecting her ability to collaborate broadly across the political spectrum.

Guiding New York City’s Priorities

As Speaker, Menin is positioned to play a critical role in shaping the city’s priorities and negotiating its $116 billion budget. She emphasizes partnership with the new mayor’s office to advance shared goals such as making New York more affordable, expanding universal childcare, reducing rent and healthcare costs, and ensuring family wellbeing citywide.

Proven Track Record in Public Service

Menin has a strong background in public service, having served as Commissioner for the Department of Consumer Affairs and Media and Entertainment, as well as chairing the City Council’s Small Business and Consumer Protection committees. Notably, she helped establish the nation’s first municipal Office of Healthcare Accountability, aimed at increasing transparency and saving billions in medical costs.

Vision for Inclusive Governance

Menin’s leadership signals a pragmatic and inclusive approach to governance, prepared to partner across boroughs and with diverse stakeholders to implement policies that support New York families and businesses.

“I am honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me to be a voice of action for New York families,” said Menin. “We are prepared to partner with Mayor-elect Mamdani's administration to make New York more affordable with universal child care, reduced rent and healthcare costs, and ensure all families can thrive.”

Julie Menin’s appointment as City Council Speaker promises balanced, experienced leadership focused on practical solutions and collaborative progress for New York City’s diverse needs.

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City & State New York City & State New York — 2025-12-01

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