Jumaane Williams Re-Elected As NYC Public Advocate: Projection

NEW YORK CITY — Jumaane Willams may have his eye on a run for governor, but first he had to keep his current position as the city's public advocate.

Williams, a prominent progressive Democrat, won a re-election bid against a challenge from Republican Devi Nampiaparampil during Tuesday's election, according to an NY1 projection.

He carried roughly 70 percent of votes counted by 11:22 p.m.

He said during his victory speech he'll continue to fight against discrimination and deliver positive change.

"I know New York has so much more to say and to them I say tuned," he said.

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The race was widely seen as Williams' to lose given his name recognition — he ran for lieutenant governor in 2018 — and the fact Democrats vastly outnumber Republicans in New York City.

During his time as public advocate, Williams leveled high-profile criticism toward Mayor Bill de Blasio and actively participated in the George Floyd protests.

He's also a close political ally with Council Member Brad Lander, who is also projected to win the city's comptroller race.