A slew of candidates is vying for the seat held by Rep. Jerry Nadler, who has retired after 17 terms in office, leaving New Yorkers to choose between seasoned politicians and newcomers alike. The 12th Congressional District, which includes iconic spots like Times Square, Central Park, and the Upper East and West Sides, is a coveted prize.
At two key polling locations - Butterfield Market on the Upper East Side and Zabar's on the Upper West - Gothamist conducted an informal poll to gauge voters' views of the diverse pool of candidates. The list includes state Assemblymembers Micah Lasher and Alex Bores, Jack Schlossberg, a member of the Kennedy clan; Parkland survivor and gun control advocate Cameron Kasky, LGBTQ+ activist Matthew Shurka, businessman Alan Pardee, attorney Laura Dunn, former WNYC host Jami Floyd, and others.
Voters were asked what qualities they look for in a candidate, with many emphasizing the need for a negotiator who can help secure funding for vital public services like the MTA. June Eddy, 70, at Zabar's, praised Nadler's departure, stating that "our government has turned into a gerontocracy" and we need fresh ideas.
While some voters were unfamiliar with certain candidates, such as social media personality Jack Schlossberg, many knew him due to his high profile. Rob Don, 33, commented, "He talks a lot about corruption in government, and he's more of a progressive person." On the other hand, Westsider Records owner Bruce Eder, 70, expressed skepticism over Schlossberg's Kennedy legacy.
George Conway, an anti-Trump conservative lawyer, is rumored to be considering a run for office. His background in Republican circles could pose a significant hurdle, as the district tends to vote Democratic. However, some voters were intrigued by his potential candidacy, citing Eder's observation that "he would be, to me, the most interesting candidate."
State Assemblymember Alex Bores, who has focused on artificial intelligence regulations, was praised by many voters for being a likable and capable leader. Harris Bulow, 47, outside Zabar's, expressed support for Bores, stating, "Alex Bores is the guy. Period." Meanwhile, some voters suggested adding more candidates to the mix.
The contest promises to be a lively one, with voters eager to choose from an array of candidates promising change and representation in their beloved 12th Congressional District.
At two key polling locations - Butterfield Market on the Upper East Side and Zabar's on the Upper West - Gothamist conducted an informal poll to gauge voters' views of the diverse pool of candidates. The list includes state Assemblymembers Micah Lasher and Alex Bores, Jack Schlossberg, a member of the Kennedy clan; Parkland survivor and gun control advocate Cameron Kasky, LGBTQ+ activist Matthew Shurka, businessman Alan Pardee, attorney Laura Dunn, former WNYC host Jami Floyd, and others.
Voters were asked what qualities they look for in a candidate, with many emphasizing the need for a negotiator who can help secure funding for vital public services like the MTA. June Eddy, 70, at Zabar's, praised Nadler's departure, stating that "our government has turned into a gerontocracy" and we need fresh ideas.
While some voters were unfamiliar with certain candidates, such as social media personality Jack Schlossberg, many knew him due to his high profile. Rob Don, 33, commented, "He talks a lot about corruption in government, and he's more of a progressive person." On the other hand, Westsider Records owner Bruce Eder, 70, expressed skepticism over Schlossberg's Kennedy legacy.
George Conway, an anti-Trump conservative lawyer, is rumored to be considering a run for office. His background in Republican circles could pose a significant hurdle, as the district tends to vote Democratic. However, some voters were intrigued by his potential candidacy, citing Eder's observation that "he would be, to me, the most interesting candidate."
State Assemblymember Alex Bores, who has focused on artificial intelligence regulations, was praised by many voters for being a likable and capable leader. Harris Bulow, 47, outside Zabar's, expressed support for Bores, stating, "Alex Bores is the guy. Period." Meanwhile, some voters suggested adding more candidates to the mix.
The contest promises to be a lively one, with voters eager to choose from an array of candidates promising change and representation in their beloved 12th Congressional District.
so like what's up with all these people running for Rep Jerry Nadler's seat? I mean, some are total insiders, others are kinda famous but also kinda unknown 
like Jack Schlossberg, who's got a Kennedy connection but also talks about corruption and stuff. And then there's George Conway, who's a lawyer and all, but like from the other side of the aisle 
. What's really interesting is that some people are actually excited about him running 
. It's not all about just throwing more money at the problems.
. He's got a pretty interesting background, and some people are actually excited about him running. But, I mean, he is from Republican circles... 
️.
. we're stuck on the idea that 'fresh ideas' are all we need, but what about experience? Nadler had 17 terms for a reason – he knows how to get stuff done. and let's be real, who can even afford a campaign like the ones these candidates will likely run with? it's just gonna be more of the same old politics as usual... 
. But seriously, who's gonna bring some fresh air to the district? I mean, we got seasoned politicians and newbies alike, it's like a pizza with too many toppings – gotta pick the right one! 
. We need someone who's gonna negotiate with other politicians to get funding for our public services like the MTA. And from what I've seen at those polling locations, people are looking for likable leaders who can represent their district effectively 
. I'm curious to see how George Conway fares if he does end up running – his background could definitely bring a different dynamic to the race 
.
. Not just some charismatic person with a social media following 
. It's about what we want for our community, not just what we wanna hear from someone new 
.
jerry nadler is retreating after 17 terms lol who knew he was that old? anyway, i'm low-key rooting for micah lashar and alex bores they both seem really cool and down-to-earth. and can we talk about jack schlossberg for a sec? i know some ppl r skeptical 'bout his kensington fam but i think he's got the progressive vibe goin on 
also its dope to see jack schlossberg's name on the list, he seems like a bold one who speaks his mind 
idk about george conway tho, considering a republican run in dem-friendly dist 12 would be wild 
but hey we gotta keep an eye on whoever is gonna make the biggest impact for our district 
. As we move forward in this electoral cycle, it'll be fascinating to see how these candidates navigate the nuances of representation and governance in the 12th Congressional District 