In a move that’s already sparking debate, New York City Councilmember Nantasha Williams has introduced legislation—backed by 32 co-sponsors—to boost salaries for the city’s highest elected leaders by around 16%. The proposal would lift Council members’ annual pay from $148,500 to $172,500, the mayor’s from $258,750 to $300,500, and include similar increases for the public advocate, borough presidents, and comptroller.
To sidestep the city charter’s restrictions on “lame duck” votes right after elections, the Council has delayed action until the new term begins. That means the bill will hit the desk of incoming mayor Zohran Mamdani on January 1, 2026—fresh off his victory on a platform hammering affordability for everyday New Yorkers.
Caught in the crossfire, Mamdani now grapples with a political tightrope: signing off could undermine his cost-of-living crusade and alienate voters, while a veto might ignite instant friction with a Council that overwhelmingly endorsed the raise…