FAQ NYC Episode 460: City Council Speaker Is the Next Race Up
Nov 24, 2025
Crystal Hudson, a Brooklyn City Council member and candidate for New York City Council Speaker, dives into her vision for the city, focusing on affordability, safety, and services for older adults. She shares insights on the importance of the speaker's role in maintaining accountability and working effectively with the mayor. Hudson emphasizes building consensus across diverse communities and her plans for a more responsive city government. She also discusses the complexities of the speaker race and her stance on council pay raises amidst the affordability crisis.
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Episode notes
Travelers Greet Mamdani With Excitement
- Katie Honan recounts Irish strangers enthusiastically asking about Zoran Mamdani during her trip to Ireland.
- People there saw Mamdani's win as a reason to consider moving to New York.
Speaker's Role Is Co-Equal Oversight
- Crystal Hudson frames the speaker as a co-equal branch that must provide oversight and accountability of the mayor.
- She stresses delivering tangible results while holding the mayor accountable through "productive tension."
Manage Mayoral Tension With Communication
- Use regular, open communication and accountability to manage tense relations with the mayor.
- Be a credible messenger who can both collaborate and stand firm in moments of disagreement.