Campaign Insiders is PoliticsNY’s latest Q&A series featuring candidates running for office in the 2026 New York primary election. This edition of Campaign Insiders features Mariama James who is running to represent New York’s 65th Assembly District. The 65th Assembly District is located in Manhattan and includes the Financial District, Chinatown and the Lower East Side.
What are the top three issues for your campaign?
Ensure stable and secure housing for all residents; fully fund healthcare and Medicaid to guarantee access to essential services; and invest in programs that support both youth and seniors to strengthen community well-being across generations.
Why did you decide to run for office?
I decided to run for State Assembly after decades on the frontlines of housing and public health. I’ve helped tenants fight unsafe conditions, expand affordable housing, and improve access to care in underserved communities. Those local wins showed both what’s possible and where current state policy falls short. I’m running to turn proven, community-driven solutions into statewide action that ensures every New Yorker has safe housing and access to quality healthcare.
What do you believe is the top issue facing voters and how do you plan to address it if elected?
Housing security is the top issue facing voters. Too many families are struggling with displacement and unsafe conditions. In Albany, I will fight for permanent affordability by expanding truly affordable housing, expanding tenant protection laws, and increasing funding for maintenance of NYCHA facilities. I’ll also push for long-term housing security so that residents who want to age in place can stay in their homes for life.
How does your background qualify you to hold office?
My background reflects decades of service and advocacy. I’ve spent 30+ years in accounting, bringing fiscal oversight to an IBEW Local 3 union shop, while serving as a community advocate. I’m a district leader, CB1 committee co-chair, and Sophie Gerson Healthy Youth board member, and was a PTA leader while my three children attended NYC public schools. I know the issues because I’ve spent years working directly with residents to address them.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents?
It’s easy to make promises, but I’ve spent decades actually delivering results for the 65th District, from the passage of the Zadroga Act to the affordable housing guarantee at 5 WTC to providing afterschool programs and summer camp opportunities for children through Sophie Gerson. Voters can trust that I will continue to deliver results like these – and more – in Albany.
From now until early voting, Campaign Insiders will be featuring candidates from select democratic primary races across the City & State. Be sure to check back to hear from a wide range of candidates from assembly, senate, and congressional races as well as the NYS comptroller race!
Early voting in NYC is June 13th-21st and Election Day is June 23rd. Check out the PoliticsNY Election Primer to see who will be on your ballot and don’t forget to vote this June!
