NYC comptroller hopeful Justin Brannan (D) nets key union support amid Hudson Yards casino debate

The Hotel Trades Council and 32BJ, two of New York’s most influential unions, are throwing their political weight behind Justin Brannan’s bid for city comptroller — the labor groups’ first citywide endorsements in the 2025 cycle.

The unions, which between them represent roughly 125,000 workers in the city, hold significant sway in local elections and are known to mount extensive get-out-the-vote campaigns for their preferred candidates. Together with DC 37, the city’s largest municipal union, their endorsements of Mayor Adams in the 2021 election were instrumental in carrying him to victory that year.

“I am truly honored to have the support of 32BJ and HTC as we challenge the status quo, stand up to Trump, and ensure that every worker is treated with dignity and respect,” Brannan, a Council member representing southern Brooklyn, said Thursday.

Besides being the first citywide 2025 endorsement they’re offering, it’s significant that HTC and 32 BJ are in Brannan endorsing the more progressive candidate in the race. The unions often back more moderate candidates, but HTC and 32 BJ officials told the Daily News they opted against backing Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Brannan’s main rival in the June 24 Democratic comptroller primary, for a handful of reasons.



https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/04/10/nyc-comptroller-hopeful-justin-brannan-nets-key-union-support-amid-hudson-yards-casino-debate/