Episode 397: Zellnor Myrie Says ‘We Cannot Cower in This Moment’
Feb 6, 2025
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Zellnor Myrie, a State Senator and mayoral candidate with a bold vision for housing and public safety, shares his insights in this engaging chat. He emphasizes the need for accountability in police practices while advocating for their integral role in community safety. Myrie discusses his innovative plans to address mental health crises in public transit and the importance of equitable opportunities in education and housing. With a touch of humor, he also reflects on childhood memories and New York's vibrant sports culture.
Zellnor Myrie emphasizes the necessity of holding police accountable while simultaneously recognizing their integral role in public safety.
Myrie advocates for engaging young voters and increasing democratic participation through initiatives like pre-registration and democracy officers in schools.
The senator proposes an ambitious housing plan to create one million new units while preserving existing affordable housing to combat the crisis.
Deep dives
Urgency for New Leadership
The current state of New York City necessitates a call for new leadership as expressed by Zellner Myrie, a state senator and Democratic candidate for mayor. He reflects on his upbringing and personal experiences that shaped his perspective on the issues facing New Yorkers today, particularly concerning housing affordability and public safety. Myrie criticizes the incumbent administration for failing to provide solutions and for prioritizing personal agendas over the needs of the city. He emphasizes that the urgency for change is palpable among constituents, aiming to restore a sense of security and opportunity for all New Yorkers.
Public Safety and Police Reform
Myrie proposes a comprehensive public safety plan that includes hiring 3,000 additional police officers to address rising crime rates and public safety concerns. He shares a personal anecdote about how his mother's traumatic experience with crime has influenced his views on public safety, noting the importance of having a balanced approach that includes accountability for police actions. His plan aims to restore the NYPD's workforce to pre-2019 levels and enhance detective units to improve crime-solving rates. He underscores the significance of establishing trust between law enforcement and communities to foster cooperation in combating crime.
Voter Engagement and Election Reforms
Recognizing declining voter turnout, Myrie emphasizes the need for proactive measures to engage citizens, particularly young voters, in democracy. He advocates for initiatives such as pre-registration for 16- and 17-year-olds, and the establishment of democracy officers in high schools to facilitate voter registration. Myrie believes that increasing transparency in campaign financing is crucial to restoring public trust in government, especially in light of ongoing investigations surrounding the current mayor. He calls for more affirmative efforts by leadership to create a better political environment that encourages voter participation.
Housing Affordability Initiatives
Myrie outlines an ambitious housing proposal aimed at creating one million new housing units over the next decade, emphasizing the dual goals of building new units and preserving existing affordable housing. He acknowledges the burdens faced by families aspiring for homeownership in a city where housing costs have skyrocketed. By advocating for a comprehensive approach to housing that includes protecting tenants from eviction and enhancing housing resources, Myrie aims to address the housing crisis head-on. He stresses the importance of inclusive development that benefits all New Yorkers, rather than prioritizing the interests of select neighborhoods.
Mental Health and Public Safety Solutions
In addressing public safety challenges, Myrie proposes expanding support services for individuals experiencing mental health crises on public transportation. He stresses the need for dedicated teams composed of clinicians and police officers to assist those in need and divert them from the jail system. By establishing stabilization centers, the plan aims to provide immediate support while also ensuring long-term solutions for chronic mental health issues. Myrie acknowledges that collaboration among city agencies is essential to effectively address these challenges and improve overall public safety for all commuters.
“I've always represented a community that knew we could hold two things together at the same time: that we want to hold officers accountable when they step over the line but also that we need them as part of our public safety ecosystem,” state Senator and mayoral candidate Zellnor Myrie said in a wide-ranging interview.
“I've never been a defund-the-police Democrat, because my community has never been a defund-the-police community. We have always asked for police officers, but my mom doesn't want her son getting pepper sprayed. She wants to feel safe, and that is what this plan is about.”
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