New York Note: State of the City, Mayoral Race, Lobbying Rankings, Client Spotlight 

March 10, 2025
Speaker Adams Delivers State of the City

Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ 2025 State of the City Address emphasized housing affordability, economic equity, public safety reform, and protecting democracy. She highlighted the Fair Housing Framework Act and City of Yes initiative, which secured $5 billion in investments and expanded tenant protections and homeownership opportunities. Adams pledged to strengthen immigrant protections, expand maternal health services, and invest in early childhood education and minority-owned businesses. She also introduced legislation mandating quicker payments to city-contracting nonprofits to ensure stability for service providers. On public safety, she called for closing Rikers Island and replacing it with mental health courts and community-based alternatives to incarceration. Throughout the speech, she warned against federal threats to civil rights and urged grassroots activism to safeguard democracy, reinforcing New York City’s commitment to equity and resilience.

Speaker Adams Declares for Mayoral Race

Council Speaker Adrienne Adams announced that she will run for NYC Mayor. She held a rally launching the campaign on Saturday, which was attended by fellow Councilmembers supporting her run. Adams joins a crowded primary field that includes incumbent Eric Adams, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, State Senator Jessica Ramos, State Senator Zellnor Myrie, State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, Scott Stringer, Michael Blake, Jim Walden, and Whitney Tilson.

NY Public Strategies Moves Up in City Clerk’s Annual Lobbying Firm Rankings

Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies’ New York practice has been recognized as a top lobbyist in the Office of the City Clerk’s Lobbying Bureau Annual Report. Ranked fifth among the top 10 lobbying firms, the practice has climbed five spots since 2023, highlighting its rapid growth in revenue over the past two years.

Client Spotlight: Repertorio Español

Repertorio Español, founded to provide the Latinx community with high-quality theater that reflects their diverse cultures and heritage, continues to thrive today with its commitment to artistic excellence. Its latest production, LOS SOLES TRUNCOS, written by the renowned playwright René Marqués, explores profound themes of human struggle, resilience, and the complexities of family and loss. Directed by José Zayas, this captivating play features a talented ensemble delivering performances that deeply resonate with audiences. With its thought-provoking narrative and striking visuals, LOS SOLES TRUNCOS promises an unforgettable journey through the human spirit, exemplifying Repertorio Español's dedication to storytelling that speaks to both Hispanic and non-Hispanic audiences alike. 

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Authors

Rose Christ

Co-Chair, New York Practice, Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

rchrist@cozen.com

(212) 883-2248

Katie Schwab

Co-Chair, New York Practice, Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

kschwab@cozen.com

(212) 883-4913

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