Zellnor Myrie

Zellnor Myrie is an American politician and attorney currently serving as a member of the New York State Senate, representing the 20th district, which encompasses parts of western Brooklyn. A member of the Democratic Party, Myrie has been in office since 2019. He has gained attention for his legislative initiatives, particularly in the areas of housing, public safety, and electoral reform. In addition to his role in the state senate, Myrie announced his candidacy for Mayor of New York City in the 2025 election.

Early life and career

Zellnor Myrie was born on November 3, 1986, in Brooklyn, New York City, to parents who immigrated from Costa Rica. He grew up in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens neighborhood, which has significantly influenced his understanding of urban issues and community needs. Myrie attended Brooklyn Technical High School, where he likely developed an early interest in public service and civic engagement.

Following high school, Myrie pursued higher education at Fordham University, where he earned both his undergraduate and master's degrees in urban studies. His academic background provided him with a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of urban environments and the challenges faced by communities. After completing his studies at Fordham, Myrie continued his education at Cornell Law School, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree. During his time at Cornell, he took on leadership roles, serving as the president of the student government, a prison law instructor, and a pro bono scholar, which reflects his commitment to social justice and community service.

Before attending law school, Myrie worked as a legislative director for New York City Council member Fernando Cabrera. This role allowed him to gain valuable experience in the legislative process and understand the intricacies of local governance. After earning his law degree, he joined the law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell, where he practiced for just over a year before transitioning into a political career.

Legislative service

Myrie entered the political arena in 2018 when he ran for a seat in the New York State Senate, representing the 20th district. He faced Jesse Hamilton, a former member of the Independent Democratic Conference, in the Democratic primary. Myrie successfully defeated Hamilton, securing a majority of the votes in the primary election. Despite Hamilton's continued presence on the ballot in the general election under the Independence and Women's Equality lines, Myrie won decisively, receiving a significant percentage of the vote.

Since taking office, Myrie has held the position of Chair of the Elections Committee in the New York State Senate. In this capacity, he has focused on various electoral reforms aimed at enhancing the democratic process and ensuring fair access to voting. One of his notable legislative achievements includes supporting the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019, which aimed to strengthen tenant protections in New York.

Myrie has also been active in addressing housing issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. He sponsored legislation that sought to ban most evictions during the state of emergency, reflecting his commitment to protecting vulnerable populations during challenging times. His advocacy for housing stability aligns with his broader focus on social equity and community welfare.

In addition to housing, Myrie has taken a strong stance on gun violence and public safety. He authored the Community Violence Intervention Act, which recognized gun violence as a public health crisis and allocated funding to local hospitals and community-based programs aimed at violence intervention. Furthermore, he introduced a pioneering law that classifies illegal gun sales as a nuisance, potentially opening avenues for holding gun manufacturers accountable for their role in the proliferation of illegal firearms.

Myrie's involvement in social justice issues extends beyond legislative efforts. In May 2020, he participated in protests following the murder of George Floyd, advocating for racial justice and police reform. During these protests, he and his then-fiancée, Diana Richardson, were pepper-sprayed and handcuffed by law enforcement, an experience that underscored the tensions surrounding issues of race and policing in America.

Policy focus and district

As a state senator, Myrie has focused on a range of policy areas that reflect the needs and concerns of his constituents in the 20th district. His legislative priorities include housing, public safety, and electoral reform, all of which are critical issues for the residents of Brooklyn. Myrie has been a vocal advocate for increasing the housing supply in New York City, proposing measures to allow for more housing development in neighborhoods with strict zoning regulations. This approach aligns with the principles of the YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) movement, which seeks to address housing shortages through increased development.

In addition to housing, Myrie has expressed concern over public health issues related to food advertising. He has advocated for regulations targeting corporations that promote unhealthy food options, reflecting a commitment to improving public health outcomes in his district. His legislative agenda demonstrates a holistic approach to community well-being, addressing both immediate needs and long-term health considerations.

Myrie's political career has also included a notable campaign for Mayor of New York City in the 2025 election. He announced the formation of an exploratory committee in May 2024 and officially launched his campaign later that year. His candidacy has been characterized by a focus on housing and urban development, aiming to alleviate the housing crisis in the city by proposing ambitious plans for new housing construction.

In summary, Zellnor Myrie is a prominent figure in New York politics, known for his legislative work in the state senate and his recent bid for mayor. His background in urban studies and law, combined with his commitment to social justice and community engagement, shapes his approach to governance and policy-making. As he continues to serve in the New York State Senate, Myrie remains focused on addressing the pressing issues facing his constituents and advocating for meaningful reforms in the areas of housing, public safety, and electoral integrity.