NYC Democratic Socialists Brag About Budget 'Wins' After Voting Against It - Hypocrisy?

NYC Democratic Socialists Claim Budget Victories After Voting Against It

Three Democratic socialist City Council members, Tiffany Caban, Alex Aviles, and Shahana Hanif, are facing criticism for boasting about budget “wins” after voting against the spending plan. The lawmakers argued that the $112.4 billion 2025 budget allocated too much funding to the NYPD.

Despite their opposition, Hanif sent multiple emails to her Brooklyn constituents, highlighting nearly $14 million in “capital budget wins” secured for her district. She also praised her “incredible partnership” with Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, despite voting against the budget that Adams supported.

Aviles similarly took credit for securing $1 million for a Sunset Park community organization that assists immigrants. Caban sent an email to her constituents celebrating the restored library funding, claiming a victory over Mayor Eric Adams.

However, none of the lawmakers acknowledged their vote against the budget that made these funding allocations possible. This has led to accusations of “hilarious hypocrisy” from other council members and constituents.

One council source criticized the three lawmakers for playing politics and not doing the hard work of budget negotiations. Another source pointed out the hypocrisy of taking credit for funding while voting against the budget that provided it.

Hanif's spokesperson defended her vote, stating that she opposed the Mayor's cuts to education and parks but did not address her claims of securing funding.

Constituents in Hanif’s district expressed disappointment with her actions, describing them as unprincipled and inconsistent. One voter criticized her for claiming credit for funding while also advocating for zero police presence in the area. Another constituent claimed that Hanif has been unresponsive to her request to address offensive graffiti in the neighborhood.

Representatives for Aviles and Caban did not respond to requests for comment.