In These Times with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch: Episode Featuring Brad Lander
Release Date: June 19, 2025
Guest: Brad Lander, New York City Comptroller and Mayoral Candidate
Introduction
In this episode of "In These Times with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch," Rabbi Hirsch engages in a comprehensive discussion with Brad Lander, the current New York City Comptroller and a prominent candidate vying for the Democratic nomination for Mayor of New York City. The conversation delves deep into Lander's vision for the city, his progressive values rooted in his Jewish upbringing, and his perspectives on pressing issues such as safety, affordability, immigration, and anti-Semitism.
Brad Lander's Background and Motivation
Brad Lander introduces himself, highlighting his longstanding commitment to public service shaped by his Jewish upbringing within the Reform movement.
- Early Involvement: "I was 23, like, what did I know? But they saw in me somebody who could help and hired me to help make government work better for them." (03:10)
- Commitment to Tikkun Olam: Lander emphasizes the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world—as a driving force behind his public service endeavors.
Current Mayoral Campaign Dynamics
Lander provides insights into the intensity of the current mayoral race in New York City.
- Campaign Experience: "I love being out there, honestly, every day." (01:24)
- Engagement with Constituents: He shares anecdotes of daily interactions, such as talking to a caregiver concerned about her family's intentions (01:24).
- Political Climate: Lander acknowledges the "knife fighting of politics" but remains optimistic about addressing core issues that resonate with New Yorkers (01:24).
Key Campaign Issues
1. Safety
Lander identifies public safety as a top priority, aiming to bolster community trust and reduce crime.
- Commitment to Police Leadership: "Keep Jesse Tish on as police commissioner and confront the public safety problems the city is facing." (06:22)
- Holistic Approach to Safety: Emphasizes both law enforcement and social services to address root causes of crime.
2. Affordability
Addressing the skyrocketing cost of living, Lander focuses on housing and economic stability.
- Personal Connection: "My youngest just graduated from college. They don't think they'd be able to buy a home in the city..." (06:22)
- Policy Focus: "Build and save affordable housing and help make the city more affordable." (06:22)
3. Effective Governance
Lander proposes systemic reforms to enhance government efficiency and integrity.
- Track Record: "I've got a 30 year track record of public integrity, cleaning up corruption and making government work for people." (06:22)
- Managing Budgets: Emphasizes strategic budget management in an era of limited resources.
Views on Trumpism and Its Impact on NYC
Lander expresses deep concerns about the influence of Trumpism on New York City.
- Budget Cuts: "The first cut they announced they were making was housing vouchers... they're going to be homeless..." (08:56)
- Societal Impact: "Budget cuts to health care, to housing, to education are going to affect New Yorkers broadly." (08:56)
- Anti-Semitism and Institutional Safety: Discusses how Trump's policies threaten the safety and well-being of Jewish communities in NYC (08:56).
Immigration Stance
Lander outlines his nuanced approach to immigration, balancing control with compassion.
- Support for Due Process: "Everyone is entitled under international law to a credible fear hearing." (12:38)
- Practical Solutions: Advocates for supportive housing and services to reduce homelessness among immigrants (12:38).
- Concerns About Enforcement: "Targeted in immigrant communities... National Guard or active duty Marines..." (14:23)
Perspective on Policing and "Defunding the Police"
Contrary to some progressive calls for defunding, Lander advocates for both robust policing and social services.
- Police Funding: "We need to have 35,000 officers on the street. Right now we're about 1500 below that." (17:17)
- Balanced Strategy: "Policing for violent crime and thoughtful and strategic social services to solve some of the underlying problems." (19:02)
- Accountability and Effectiveness: Praises Commissioner Jesse Tish's leadership and crime reduction efforts (19:02).
Jewish Identity and Anti-Semitism
Lander discusses the rise in anti-Semitism and its personal and community impact.
- Personal Experiences: "Jews don't feel safe and many feel frustrated with the Democratic Party." (33:21)
- Policy Proposals: "More resources to the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force and the Mayor's Office of Hate Crimes." (33:52)
- Dialogue and Understanding: Advocates for fostering dialogue to bridge divides and counteract dehumanizing rhetoric (33:52).
Response to October 7th Events
The conversation addresses the immediate aftermath of the October 7th attacks and their political ramifications.
- Initial Reaction: "I was heartbroken and bereft... politically, I have to say." (26:09)
- Anticipated Political Fallout: Expected fragmentation of the left and Netanyahu's overreaction, aligning with Lander's predictions (27:31).
Anti-Zionism in the Progressive Left
Lander expresses concern over rising anti-Zionist sentiments within progressive circles.
- Impact on Liberal Judaism: "I'm concerned about the future of liberal Judaism in general." (30:54)
- Balancing Critique and Support: Supports a two-state solution while condemning anti-Semitic rhetoric (30:54).
Jewish Upbringing and Community Engagement
Lander shares his deep-rooted connection to Judaism and its influence on his values and political stance.
- Active Participation: "I was active at Hillel... taught Sunday school and Hebrew school." (21:12)
- Community Building: Highlights relationships with diverse Jewish communities, including ultra-Orthodox groups (21:15).
Investment in Israel
Addressing accusations of disinvestment, Lander clarifies his position on supporting Israeli enterprises.
- Clarification: "Investments in Israel have grown under my watch from about 275 to 3,325 million dollars." (36:32)
- Opposition to BDS: "I have always opposed BDS and I always will." (36:32)
Final Remarks and Messages
In his closing statements, Lander underscores the importance of embodying Jewish values in public service and governance.
- Commitment to Dialogue: "We love the debates and the arguments. I want us to be able to have them safely." (37:31)
- Vision for NYC: Advocates for a safer, more affordable, and better-run city as a foundation for constructive community discourse (37:31).
Rabbi Hirsch's Reflections
Rabbi Hirsch concludes the episode by reflecting on Lander's qualities and the significant issues discussed.
- Praise for Lander: "He is smart, eloquent, personable, and from childhood has had a strong Jewish identity." (39:08)
- Emphasis on Jewish Values: Reinforces the importance of compassion, justice, and mercy as central to Jewish teachings and public life.
Conclusion
Brad Lander presents a comprehensive and progressive vision for New York City, deeply informed by his Jewish values and long-standing commitment to public service. His focus on safety, affordability, effective governance, and combating anti-Semitism positions him as a candidate dedicated to addressing both the immediate and systemic challenges facing the city.