Erik Bottcher

Erik Bottcher is an American politician currently serving as a member of the New York State Senate, representing the 47th district. A member of the Democratic Party, Bottcher has a background in local government and advocacy, particularly in issues related to the LGBTQ+ community. He previously served on the New York City Council, where he represented the 3rd district, which encompasses neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and Hell's Kitchen. Bottcher's political career has been shaped by his personal experiences and commitment to public service.

Early life and career

Erik Bottcher was born on May 9, 1979, in Wilmington, New York, a small town located in the Adirondack Mountains near Lake Placid. He was raised in a family that operated a fly fishing motel named "The Hungry Trout," which contributed to his upbringing in a close-knit community. Bottcher's early life was marked by significant challenges, particularly during his adolescence. He faced struggles with depression and issues related to his sexual orientation, which culminated in several suicide attempts. At the age of 15, Bottcher was admitted to Four Winds Hospital, a mental health facility in Saratoga Springs, New York, for treatment.

Following his recovery, Bottcher became an advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights. He graduated from Lake Placid High School, where he took a stand against bullying by writing an open letter to the school board. In this letter, he shared his experiences and urged the district to enhance protections for students based on sexual orientation. His advocacy led to the inclusion of "sexual orientation" in the school district's non-discrimination policy, marking the beginning of his engagement in political activism.

Bottcher pursued higher education at George Washington University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. After completing his studies, he relocated to Manhattan and took on various roles across different sectors. His early career included positions as a traffic coordinator at an advertising firm, a production assistant in the packaging design department of Colgate Palmolive, and a realtor at the Corcoran Group. These diverse experiences laid the groundwork for his eventual transition into public service.

Bottcher's formal entry into politics began in 2009 when he joined the New York City Council as the LGBT and HIV/AIDS community liaison. In this capacity, he worked on a range of issues, including hate crimes, transgender rights, bullying in schools, and the campaign for marriage equality in New York State. His efforts contributed to the successful passage of marriage equality legislation in 2011. Bottcher later served as the LGBTQ liaison in the governor's office, further solidifying his commitment to advocacy for marginalized communities. In 2015, he returned to city politics as chief of staff to Council member Corey Johnson, a position he held until he launched his own campaign for the City Council.

Legislative service

In February 2020, Bottcher announced his candidacy for the 3rd district of the New York City Council, seeking to succeed the term-limited Corey Johnson. With Johnson's endorsement, Bottcher quickly emerged as a leading candidate, raising significant funds and garnering support from major unions and local elected officials. His campaign focused on addressing pressing issues such as mental health, sanitation, and employment opportunities for residents of public housing and those living in poverty.

Bottcher's campaign was successful, and he won the election held on June 22, 2021, where he received a substantial percentage of first-choice votes. Following the counting of absentee and ranked-choice ballots, he officially defeated his opponent, Arthur Schwartz, by a significant margin. Bottcher faced no opposition in the general election that November, solidifying his position on the City Council.

During his tenure on the City Council, Bottcher continued to advocate for policies that supported the LGBTQ+ community and addressed mental health issues. His work included initiatives aimed at improving public safety, enhancing community resources, and promoting inclusivity. Bottcher's commitment to public service was further highlighted by his participation in various community events and his responsiveness to the needs of his constituents.

In December 2025, Bottcher announced his candidacy for the New York State Senate seat previously held by Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who was elected as the Manhattan Borough President. Initially, Bottcher had considered running for the congressional seat vacated by Jerry Nadler in New York's 12th congressional district but ultimately decided to pursue the state senate position instead. He successfully won the special election for the 47th district and assumed office on February 4, 2026.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New York State Senate, Bottcher represents the 47th district, which includes parts of Manhattan known for their vibrant communities and diverse populations. His legislative priorities reflect his background in advocacy and his commitment to addressing the needs of his constituents. Bottcher's policy focus includes issues related to mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, housing, and public safety.

Bottcher's experiences as a member of the City Council have informed his approach to state-level legislation. He aims to continue advocating for mental health resources, particularly in light of the challenges faced by individuals experiencing serious mental illness. Bottcher has expressed a desire to enhance support systems for vulnerable populations and to work towards creating a more inclusive society.

In addition to mental health, Bottcher is dedicated to addressing housing issues within his district. He recognizes the importance of affordable housing and aims to implement policies that promote equitable access to housing for all residents. Bottcher's commitment to public safety is also a significant aspect of his legislative agenda, as he seeks to ensure that all communities feel secure and supported.

Bottcher's district encompasses neighborhoods with rich cultural histories and diverse demographics, including Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and Hell's Kitchen. His representation of these areas reflects his understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities present in urban settings. Bottcher's work in the state senate continues to build on his previous experiences in local government, as he strives to make a positive impact on the lives of his constituents.