Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine edged out his competition in the Democratic primary for New York City comptroller, with Brooklyn Councilman Justin Brannan ceding the race last night. Levine secured just over 48% of the vote with Brannan trailing at 33.6%, as reported by Gothamist. The results, which are shy of the 50% needed to sidestep a ranked-choice tally, are expected to be finalized on July 1, according to NY1.
Despite the gap in voting percentages, the race was closely fought, reflecting similarly progressive agendas from both candidates, particularly in their commitment to affordable housing and their opposition to former President Donald Trump. As reported by NY1, Levine spoke of his campaign as one anchored in "tangible policy ideas," promising investment in pension funds to bolster affordable housing and to address public safety through mental health reform.
Brannan, addressing his supporters, maintained the combative stance which characterized his campaign. "I’m proud of the race that we ran. I’m proud of the issue that we elevated. And, all the stuff I said during the campaign. I still believe. We need someone who is gonna make sure who hold our next mayor accountable, whoever that may be, because that’s the job. And, who’s gonna fight like hell against Donald Trump," Brannan told NY1.
After conceding the race, late Tuesday night, the city will now see Levine go head-to-head with Republican nominee Peter Kefalas in the general election. The comptroller position is critical for managing the city's pension funds, budget scrutiny, and serving as a check to the mayor's office. With the primary now behind him, Levine has already started conversations with outgoing Comptroller Brad Lander for transition planning, he told NY1, expressing gratitude for the coalition's support that came together behind his campaign effort.
