Jumaane D. Williams was sworn in again as New York City Public Advocate on Thursday, continuing a role he first assumed after winning a 2019 special election.
A Democrat who describes himself as a democratic socialist, Williams has built his political career around police reform, affordable housing, and public safety.
Political background and career
Born on May 11, 1976, Williams previously represented Brooklyn’s 45th District on the New York City Council from 2010 to 2019.
During his time on the council, he sponsored the Community Safety Act of 2013, legislation aimed at improving policing and strengthening public safety. He also advocated for stronger tenant protections and programs to reduce gun violence.
Williams was re-elected to the Public Advocate position in November 2025.
Swearing-in message
At the swearing-in ceremony, Williams emphasized systemic issues he believes affect New Yorkers.
@JumaaneWilliams being sworn in at @ZohranKMamdani mayoral inauguration #nyc @1010WINS pic.twitter.com/tjYc6EJZuu
— Mary-Lyn Buckley (@ml_buckley) January 1, 2026
“The reason New Yorkers have so little… is because of the systems entrenched at the top,” he said. “That’s where we should focus our energy.”
Key priorities as Public Advocate
As Public Advocate, Williams continues to focus on:
- Police reform and accountability
- Affordable housing and tenant protections
- Public safety and gun violence prevention
He frequently argues that structural reforms are necessary to improve quality of life across the city.
Personal life
Williams is married to India Sneed. The couple wed on July 15, 2021, at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, followed by a reception at The W Loft in Williamsburg. Their ceremony included several prominent New York political figures.
Williams and Sneed have publicly discussed their fertility struggles and challenges on the path to parenthood. In a 2021 interview with PIX11, Williams said, “Whatever I’m going through, it probably doesn’t compare to what she is going through physically and mentally.”
