Introduction to Big Money in Local Politics
This week, it was announced that five mayoral candidates will receive millions of dollars in taxpayer-supported matching funds, according to the latest disclosure from the city’s Campaign Finance Board. Noticeably absent from that list was frontrunner Andrew Cuomo, whose campaign blamed a technical error for the delay in qualifying for matching dollars.
Understanding Independent Expenditures
There won’t be a cash flow problem when it comes to getting the word out about Cuomo, though. Why? Because of New York’s local political action committees, known as independent expenditures, or IEs. They operate separately from campaigns but raise — and spend — big money on their behalf, sort of like a candidate-specific fan club. The one supporting Cuomo’s run, Fix the City, has already raised nearly $5 million — money they’ve put towards things like TV ads.
Guide to Independent Expenditures
THE CITY’s Rachel Holliday Smith wrote a guide on IEs, why they matter a lot and how you can look up which groups are paying for the ads and flyers you’ll see this election season. Keep an eye out, because huge spending by the major IEs in the city will ramp up big time in the coming weeks.
Upcoming Debates and Elections
And also! Exciting news from us: We’ll be co-hosting many of the official debates for the primary and general elections this year! That includes the debate on June 12 for leading Democratic primary candidates for mayor, airing on NY1, alongside our partners — NY1, Spectrum Noticias, WNYC/Gothamist and others. Here’s the full calendar of debates — save the dates!
What We’re Reading
Some Queens residents say their signatures were forged on ballot petitions for multiple candidates, including people running for comptroller and public advocate.
- He doesn’t have matching funds (yet) but Cuomo does have lots of labor endorsements, picking up two big ones this week.
What’s Ahead
Days until the June primary: 68
- April 29: Special election to replace Councilmember Joseph Borelli in City Council District 51. Are you in that Staten Island district? Find out here.
- May 1: The date on which election officials will certify the primary ballot — and we’ll know precisely who made it onto the ballot.
Your Election Questions, Answered
❓Reader Matt M. asked: Doesn’t the winner of the general election for mayor in November have to get at least 40% of the vote to win? With a top-two run-off if he/she doesn’t get at least 40%? Or am I mixing this up with the old (pre-ranked choice voting) system for the primaries?
Answer: Yes, you’re thinking of the old system for primaries. Our November general elections are decided by whomever gets a plurality of the vote — the winner takes it all, even if they get 40% (or less). And, reminder: We might have as many as five candidates in the general this year.
Have a question for our election team? Reply back to this email or send your questions to ask@thecity.nyc.
The Campaign Kicker
Congratulations to the city’s Board of Elections and their “Battle of the Boroughs” voting stickers, which won a coveted award known as “The Clearies” for sticker outreach that increased voter participation. We love to see it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, big money plays a significant role in local politics, particularly through independent expenditures. As the election season heats up, it’s essential to stay informed about the candidates, their campaigns, and the outside groups supporting them. By understanding how money influences local politics, voters can make more informed decisions at the polls.
FAQs
- What are independent expenditures (IEs)?
Independent expenditures are funds raised and spent by outside groups to support or oppose a candidate, separate from the candidate’s campaign. - How do IEs impact local elections?
IEs can significantly influence local elections by funding advertisements, flyers, and other campaign materials, potentially swaying voter opinions. - What is the role of the Campaign Finance Board?
The Campaign Finance Board is responsible for disclosing matching funds and overseeing campaign finance regulations in local elections. - How can I stay informed about IEs and their activities?
You can look up which groups are paying for ads and flyers through guides and resources provided by organizations like THE CITY.
