New York City officials are advancing a proposed 16% salary increase for top elected offices—timed to land on Zohran Mamdani’s desk shortly after he takes office. The move signals potential misalignment between the incoming administration’s affordability agenda and pay increases for the political class.
Under the bill introduced by Nantasha Williams (D‑Queens), City Council member salaries would rise from $148,500 to $172,500. The proposed hike would also extend to the mayor (from $258,000 to nearly $300,000), public advocate, borough presidents, and other key officials.
Councilmember Williams said a hearing will be held this year so the council can vote in January—right after the Election Day blackout period ends. Doing so would bring the increase into effect ahead of any scrutiny in the new term. The City Charter forbids raises between Election Day and year‑end, but scheduling a hearing now allows the measure to be “pre‑considered.”
Supporters argue the raise reflects cost‑of‑living pressures for elected officials in New York City. Critics say the timing undermines the incoming mayor’s message of fiscal responsibility and affordability. One source noted that Mamdani now faces a political bind: either approve the pay hike and risk credibility on affordability, or veto it and clash with the council. The last pay raise for council members was in 2016.
While the headlines focus on perks for elected officials, broader implications include public trust, transparency, and aligning leadership pay with taxpayer expectations. This story will likely unfold as Mamdani assumes office and navigates fiscal choices for the city.
