Why Latinos Still Await Statewide and Citywide Office Wins in New York

Experts explore the political challenges and history behind the lack of Latino representation in top offices.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Despite making up nearly 20% of New York's population and 28% of New York City's population, Latinos have yet to be elected to statewide or citywide offices in the state. Scholar and activist Eliezer "Eli" Valentin joined NY1's Errol Louis to discuss the political obstacles and history behind this lack of representation, drawing from Valentin's book "Politicking in the Barrio: Essays on Latino Politics in New York."

Why it matters

The absence of Latino representation in New York's highest offices is seen by many as a significant gap in the state's political leadership and a barrier to addressing issues important to the Latino community. Understanding the complex factors behind this lack of representation could inform strategies to increase Latino political power and participation.

The details

Valentin cited a range of factors that have contributed to the lack of Latino statewide and citywide office holders in New York, including challenges in building cross-ethnic coalitions, the dominance of established political machines, and the difficulty for Latino candidates to gain traction and funding. The conversation also reviewed the political histories and careers of notable Latino figures like Fernando Ferrer, Herman Badillo, Nydia Velázquez, Nelson Denis, and Adam Clayton Powell IV.

  • According to the latest census figures, there are approximately 3.87 million people of Hispanic or Latino origin living in New York state as of 2026.
  • Latinos make up about 19 to 20% of New York state's total population, and the majority, around 2.5 million, live in New York City, constituting 28 or 29% of the city's population.

The players

Eliezer "Eli" Valentin

A scholar, activist, political adviser and ordained minister who has written about Latino politics in New York.

Errol Louis

The host of NY1's "You Decide with Errol Louis" podcast, where he conducts in-depth interviews with political and cultural figures.

Fernando Ferrer

A former Bronx borough president who ran for mayor of New York City.

Herman Badillo

A former U.S. Representative who shifted from being a progressive reformer to later allying with Republicans.

Nydia Velázquez

A U.S. Representative known for her coalition-building support across Latino groups.

Nelson Denis

A former New York State Assemblyman.

Adam Clayton Powell IV

A former U.S. Representative.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The lack of Latino representation in New York's highest offices highlights the complex political and historical factors that have hindered the Latino community's ability to gain a stronger foothold in the state's leadership. Understanding these challenges is crucial to developing strategies that can increase Latino political participation and power.