Gay NYC councilman running for Congress warns that America is at a critical juncture

New York City Council member Erik Bottcher has officially announced his candidacy to succeed long-serving Democratic U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler in Manhattans 12th Congressional District. Bottcher framed the election as more than a simple district turnover; he described it as a measure of the nations commitment to democratic values.

Were at a pivotal moment, Bottcher, 46, told The Advocate. We must choose between rejecting hatred and discrimination or allowing our country to regress, losing hard-fought civil rights protections along the way.

The open seat has drawn a competitive field of candidates, including political newcomers and familiar names like Jack Schlossberg, grandson of President John F. Kennedy. Bottcher, who recently secured re-election to the City Council with nearly 90% of the vote, sees this race as a generational turning point.

Voters are eager for new energy and leadership, Bottcher said. While Washington has many long-serving figures, its time for fresh voices to strengthen the fight for justice and equality.

The district encompasses Manhattans west side, including Chelsea, Hells Kitchen, Midtown, and parts of Greenwich Village, areas that have shaped Bottchers political identity. His advocacy is deeply informed by personal experiences: at 15, he survived multiple suicide attempts and credited mental health treatment for his survival and eventual political career.

Accessible care saved my life, yet most Americans still cannot reach it, Bottcher said, highlighting one of his key federal priorities: overhauling the nations mental health system.

Bottcher criticized recent federal changes affecting LGBTQ+ youth, saying, Removing Option 3 from the 988 suicide hotline tells queer kids that their lives are not valued. Mental health, housing reform, and opposing what he calls the Trump agenda form the core pillars of his campaign.

On housing, Bottcher emphasizes a national crisis requiring federal intervention to reform restrictive zoning laws, a policy consistent with his City Council work on land use and affordable housing.

Every community is feeling the housing pinch, he said. Federal incentives for state and city reforms will help bring costs down nationwide.

While opponents bring name recognition or networks, Bottcher stresses his long-term community engagement. Some candidates bring celebrity, but I bring years of service on the ground, he said.

Bottcher also sees broader political shifts outside New York, citing Virginias blue wave and notable departures from extreme partisan rhetoric. He hopes to channel a growing desire for cross-party solutions, generational change, and principled leadership.

He advises voters to evaluate candidates by their record, not marketing. Look at what someone has done in the community they aim to represent, Bottcher said. I came to New York with nothing and experienced firsthand the promise of this city for those escaping discrimination.

Author: Sophia Brooks