Through our new video series, Reel Talk, we have introduced you to the City Council candidates for the upcoming New York City Primary Election. Before early voting begins on June 14th, here’s one last chance to get to know the people on your ballot.
Manhattan’s District 2 includes the Lower East Side and East Village, as well as Kips Bay, Murray Hill, Gramercy Park, Alphabet City, and other small neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan. It’s currently represented by Council Member Carlina Rivera.
There are five Democrats running in the Primary Election: Sarah Batchu, Harvey Epstein, Andrea Gordillo, Allie Ryan and Anthony Weiner. The winner will face off against Republican candidate, Jason Murillo, on November 4th, 2025.
Sarah Batchu
A resident of the Lower East Side, Batchu wants to fight for a city where health care is guaranteed, and affordable housing is accessible to all.
Harvey Epstein
For the last eight years, Epstein has represented the 74th Assembly District, and he is now looking to help make change in New York City. He wants to get in front of the mental health crisis, make streets safer, and fight for a more affordable New York.
Andrea Gordillo
The current chairperson for Manhattan Community Board 3, Gordillo wants to bring her leadership experience to the City Council in order to address issues that are top of mind, such as public safety and affordable housing. Reel Talk is a new series where we help voters get to know the candidates running for New York City Council.
Allie Ryan
Ryan ran for the office two years ago, and won 40% of the vote. She wants to work to pass Priscilla’s Law, which will protect New Yorkers from e-bikes; fix the polluted water in Jacob Riis Houses; and legislate to protect community gardens.
Anthony Weiner
Weiner released 25 ideas for 2025, which included the idea to hire 3,000 more police officers. He wants to speak directly to voters, and to solve their problems.
Jason Murillo
Murillo is a community organizer and activist. He grew up in NYCHA housing, and works as a producer and small business owner; he has spent decades in entertainment and philanthropy, providing school supplies, free haircuts, and toy drives for local families.
Primary Election Day: Tuesday, June 24
Early Voting: June 14–23
General Election Day: Tuesday, November 4