The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Michael Blake Talks Affordability In NYC, Housing Justice Plan, Cuomo's Corruption + More
Jun 17, 2025
Michael Blake, former New York State Assemblyman and mayoral candidate, dives into pressing issues of affordability and housing justice in NYC. He proposes innovative solutions like eliminating credit scores for housing applications and instituting a vacant apartment tax. The conversation also critiques Mayor Eric Adams' handling of public safety and homelessness while calling for community-driven approaches. Blake emphasizes the need for political integrity and transformative housing policies to support marginalized communities.
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Michael Blake's Background Story
- Michael Blake grew up in the Bronx, attended public schools, and was trained by Barack Obama in the Yes We Can program.
- He worked in the White House, ran black outreach, and returned home to serve in the State Assembly and help his community.
Affordability's Core Solutions
- Affordability is New York City's biggest issue and requires ending credit score use and increasing income limits for housing.
- Local median income should replace area median income to reflect realistic affordability.
Critique of Eric Adams' Tenure
- Mayor Eric Adams spent more time avoiding jail than addressing city problems like unconstitutional stop and frisk and corruption.
- Such mismanagement harms efforts of black leaders trying to bring change.