Guide of guides: Public Advocate special election
New Yorkers will go to the polls tomorrow to vote in a special election for the new public advocate, a citywide watchdog with few direct powers beyond proposing legislation. Public advocates use the office to bring attention to issues of concern, and those elected often seek higher office.
The role was previously filled by Letitia James, who took office as New York State Attorney General in January. Before James, the office was held by Mayor Bill de Blasio.
There are 17 candidates on the ballot for public advocate. Some are better known than others. Since special elections in New York City are nonpartisan affairs, candidates cannot run under traditional party affiliations, such as Democrat or Republican. They must instead run under parties of their own creation.