Melissa Mark-Viverito, 44-Year-Old Puerto Rican, Elected Speaker Of NYC Council In Unanimous Vote

Melissa Mark-Viverito, a Puerto Rico-born Councilwoman, has been elected as speaker of the New York City Council. In a unanimous vote, the City Council elected Mark-Viverito as the first Hispanic politician to hold the office. A fiercely liberal Democrat and East Harlem resident, Ms. Mark-Viverito is an ally of New York Mayor Bill de Blasio who was instrumental in ensuring her election - the victory ensures that Mr. De Blasio will have support in the city's legislative branch, allowing him to enact much of his political agenda.

“I am very honored and truly humbled by this day,” said Ms. Mark-Viverito, who was supported by the left-leaning Progressive Caucus. The 44-year-old politician vowed that she would continue to push for “a more equal and just New York where everyone, no matter what borough you are from, what neighborhood you were raised in or who your parents were, has equal opportunities.” Meanwhile Bronx Councilman Ritchie Torres proclaimed ladies and gentlemen, this is an historic moment. Today we will be electing the first Latino Speaker of the City Council.”

As the New York Times suggests, Ms. Mark-Viverito's election is indicative of a dramatic shift in New York politics. The city's corporate and real-estate classes, so accustomed to having influence in the City's politics, were unable to ensure the election of their preferred candidate, Daniel R. Garodnick. Instead, New York's sizeable share of the '1 percent' will have both a mayor and house speaker who support progressive rights for the labor class to contend with.

Ms. Mark Viverito's victory is also a significant sign of recognition for the city's large Latino population. Indeed, the Councilwoman delivered her victory speech in both English and Spanish, while Puerto Rican flags were waved enthusiastically following the announcement. Meanwhile, a group of drummers and maraca players broke out in a salsa song after the vote.

While Mayor De Blasio has faced criticism for his outspoken support for Ms. Mark-Viverito, the Councilwoman assured voters that she differed on a number of issues with Mr. De Blasio and would keep the Mayor in check: “We will unite to hold the administration and mayor accountable," she wrote in statement released to the media. Yet while none have voiced their concern at the powerful alliance, Ms. Mark-Viverito's comments are unlikely to qualm the fears of officials in the business and realestate sectors.