Media

This is the first of a series of “special messages” I plan to issue to various communities, which represent policy commitments.

“Journalism is the art of coming up with questions that someone doesn’t want you to ask.”

— Carl Bernstein

How I plan to run City Hall’s Press Office

We have all seen the scourge of politicians attacking or ignoring the press. The examples are legion. On one end of the spectrum, President Trump bellows at journalist Abby Phillip “What a stupid question” and “You ask a lot of stupid questions.” On the tamer end of the spectrum, President Biden limits press access. Even here in the Big Apple, media capital of the world, Mayor Adams refers to skeptical reporters as “haters” and places anti-democratic limits on what they may ask at press conferences. This is regrettable and wrong. Freedom of the press is an essential freedom in our democracy. Full stop.

Speaking of me, New York City voters have a right to know exactly who I am and what I stand for. As a lawyer, I am used to answering tough questions. I don’t fear them. I don’t take this personally. I welcome healthy skepticism. It is the fire of the crucible that pressure-tests our government, which wields enormous power over individuals and communities.

I have worked with many of you for years. You know me. I don’t duck questions. I pledge not to do so as Mayor.

This will be my policy as Mayor. You have it in writing. Hold me accountable.

Other candidates should commit to this policy. If they refuse, hold them to account.

Jim Walden,

Candidate for Mayor