"New York City Council Races: Key Issues and Races to Watch on Election Day 2023"

Several City Council races in New York City have garnered attention from construction unions and real estate groups. The New York City District Council of Carpenters has strongly supported Bronx Council member Marjorie Velázquez, who changed her stance on a rezoning project after securing a promise to hire union carpenters. Other unions, including Local 79 and a coalition of various unions, have also backed Velázquez and Council member Sandra Ung. In Brooklyn, Council member Justin Brannan is facing a tough contest against Council member Ari Kagan, who switched to the GOP. Yusef Salaam, one of the Central Park Exonerated Five, is running unopposed for a Harlem seat and has received endorsements for his support of pro-housing zoning reform. The City Council has the power to impact real estate through rezonings and legislation.