NEW YORK, NY – The New York Working Families Party is a coalition of community organizations, labor unions and individual members, comprising over 257,000 New Yorkers. Jasmine Gripper, State Director of New York Working Families Party (NYWFP), released the following statement:

“Mayor Mamdani successfully negotiated his first city budget that is balanced and on time, demonstrating that progressive governance is also responsible governance. After inheriting a budget ridden with looming gaps and insolvency, the Mayor’s principled approach to balancing the budget was an ultimate win for New Yorkers. The city’s budget is not just about dollars and cents– it is a moral document, reflective of our shared values and an opportunity to invest in good policies for our communities.” 

“We applaud the leadership of the New York City Council’s Progressive Caucus, who fought alongside housing advocates to expand CityFHEPS to help address the housing affordability crisis. By increasing investments in CityFHEPS, we can make sure more New Yorkers have the support they need to get back on their feet and put a roof above their heads with dignity. The Mayor and City Council also held the line on the NYPD headcount, while continuing to invest in real community safety, immigrant legal services and in CUNY students. These essential programs are key to helping to improve the lives of working class New Yorkers.”

“However, in these unprecedented times, in the richest city in the world, with the most progressive government in a generation, we are still seeing the communities with the most need being shortchanged. Donald Trump and the federal government have attempted to create a crisis across the state by eliminating critical resources for healthcare and food assistance. It’s up to state and local leaders to keep communities whole.” 

“Even with these wins, it is deeply concerning to see no new investment in deed theft prevention, an outstanding gap in the city’s Fair Fares program, and limited investments in communities of color across the city, in spite of the Progressive Caucus’ laser focus on delivering for the communities who need it most.” 

“Everywhere we look, families are asking themselves whether they can afford to make ends meet. It is essential that our government provides bold solutions to address the problems working families are facing. The NYWFP will keep fighting alongside our elected leaders to make sure all New Yorkers have access to the resources and tools they need to thrive.”