Editor’s note: New Year’s political resolutions for 2025

Saying farewell to 2024 also means coming up with a few New Year’s resolutions. But unlike wanting to set goals for personal growth and development – like shedding a few pounds from all of those holiday meals or vowing to spend more quality time with friends and family – City & State instead is suggesting resolutions for those in New York’s political world looking to start off new and energized for 2025.

First off, no more “quid pro quos.” That’s how Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg described the alleged behavior of Ingrid Lewis Martin, New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ former chief adviser, who is accused of engaging in a “long-running bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy scheme” in exchange for cash and other benefits for her and her son. We don’t think that’s what Adams meant by “Get stuff done.” Lest we forget a resolution for the mayor: Close Rikers Island on schedule! Next a resolution for his potential challengers: Decide on running for mayor already! That means you, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who’s still mulling a run, and New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who was late in filing the paperwork for public matching funds. Also on jobs, stop using government positions to provide perks for family members, and we mean you, Rep. Anthony D’Esposito. As for state lawmakers: Award those casino licenses already! Also, pretend to like schlepping it up to Albany. And the resolution most likely to be broken by Gov. Kathy Hochul and the state Legislature: Finish the state budget on time.