City & Date: New York political singles looking for love

In an industry laden with egos and personalities, carving a lane as an independent thinker and doer can be challenging. And adding a layer of vulnerability gives new meaning to, “putting yourself out there.” Fortunately, those looking for love now have City & Date, a feature for political players looking for that special someone.

From Mineola to Buffalo, Murray Hill to Poughkeepsie, our statewide search for the most eligible singles attracted activists, Harvard grads and people with political tattoos (the 19th Congressional District, to be exact), in addition to reality TV fans, Luke Bryan concertgoers and people who can help you out with a flat tire on the New York State Thruway.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, here are City & State’s New York political singles.

Daniel Atonna

Job: Political coordinator, For the Many

Age: 25

Location: Poughkeepsie

Twitter: @danielatonna

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m a socialist who works at a progressive nonprofit. When I’m not working, I organize with Mid-Hudson Valley DSA and WFP. I was recently published in Jacobin. I love going to rallies, marches, protests, pickets etc. I believe that couples who canvass together stay together!

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone who wants to overthrow capitalism and then have a picnic.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Fun? Outside of politics? I’m sorry, I don’t understand the question.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? I am always loudly talking about legislation or complaining about Gov. Kathy Hochul. Literally no one has ever been surprised to learn I work in politics!

Darrell Camp

Job: Director of communications, Albany County District Attorney’s Office

Age: 30

Location: Colonie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDarrellCamp/

Tell us a little about yourself: I was born and raised in the Albany area, but spent a bit of time living in Atlanta between 2009 and 2011. From 2013 to April 2022, I worked as a reporter in both radio and television. I’ve spent the last nine months with the Albany County District Attorney’s Office.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for a person who’s fairly independent, and mentally strong. I’m somewhat difficult to deal with for extended periods of time, so the latter is fairly important.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Trying to find the best sushi in the Albany area, working out, roller skating, video games, playing my piano, showing up to friends’ houses unannounced and joining whatever activity they’re doing, riding my bike/skateboard when it’s nice out, going to the movies, trolling my boss, debating with co-workers about whether or not comic book movies are dying.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Usually it’s mild disappointment, because shortly after they also find out I used to be a reporter, which is generally seen as a marginally more honorable profession.

Alana Cantillo

Job: Vice president of advocacy, New York Immigration Coalition

Age: 35

Location: Washington Heights, Manhattan

Twitter: @APCantillo

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m originally from New Jersey, a product of public schools. I’m an immigrant from Barranquilla, Colombia, and I love my culture. I was a New York City Teaching Fellow and a Coro New York Leadership Fellow – shout to my fellow Fellows! I believe in the role of government to significantly improve people’s lives. My work is dedicated to the commitment to that philosophy. I also love cycling and mentorship.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone who is independent and has their shit together – sets goals and accomplishes them. Someone who follows their passions – someone who cares about their quality of life and making a difference. Bonus if they’re spontaneous, adventurous, have a good sense of style and like cocktails.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Spending time with my family, I prioritize that. I take group trips with close friends, exploring new places. I like hiking, picnicking and spending time outside at parks or beaches. I also love to host! I throw a great holiday party.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? People are curious. But I mostly meet people in politics, so they’re unsurprised. Sometimes people find the one piece of current events that’s relevant to them, and then ask me for my take on it because I’m an “inner.”

Mike Corbett

Job: Manhattan Democratic district leader

Age: 41

Location: Murray Hill, Manhattan

Twitter: @themikecorbett

Tell us a little about yourself: I am a lifelong New Yorker, born and raised and still live on the (NOT UPPER) East Side of Manhattan. I am a proud product of public schools including LaGuardia Arts High School (clarinet and bass clarinet). I am a third-generation Teamster who came to politics through the labor movement. My most controversial political view is that I am a fan of both the Mets AND the Yankees. I am currently the Democratic district leader for the 74th Assembly District, Part D, and senior adviser to City Council Member Marjorie Velázquez.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? A woman who: is a DEMOCRAT (non-negotiable); is involved in politics or politics adjacent; understands that this is not a 9-to-5 job and that there are frequently evening events or meetings to attend, and when possible, would like to join me at these events or meetings; regardless of political involvement, can also unplug so we can enjoy each other’s company.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I am a big sports ball fan – Mets AND Yankees, Rangers, Knicks, Dolphins, New York City Football Club and Hofstra basketball. I have been to 53 Bruce Springsteen concerts (show 54 will be in Ireland in May). I enjoy watching movies (favorite: “Goodfellas”) and binge-watching TV shows (favorite: “The West Wing”). I love exploring New York City’s vast restaurant scene and have been known to sing karaoke from time to time. 

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? There are mixed reactions. Some are interested in what really goes on behind the scenes. Others are less enthusiastic about my line of work.

Gabby Eiss

Job: Vice president, Threshold Group

Age: 27

Location: Upper East Side, Manhattan

Twitter: @gab_eiss

Tell us a little about yourself: I live on the Upper East Side and spend a lot of time goofing around with friends, playing with dogs and trying to not talk politics. I love being outside, finding new vegan restaurants and collecting old vinyls!

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? A kind and goofy person that loves to laugh and shares similar values.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I like going for long walks in the neighborhood, thrifting and watching a lot of movies. I love hanging out in Chinatown – I have a lot of great recs! I also love spending time with my family and dogs on Long Island.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They simply respond with “oh cool” and pretend to be interested in my job.

David Guirgis

Job: Communications manager/lead writer, New Deal Strategies

Age: 24

Location: Jersey City, New Jersey

Twitter: @davidsabryg

Tell us a little about yourself: As a speechwriter, ghostwriter and digital strategist, I’ve gotten to write in the voices of President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Sen. Ed Markey, among others, and have offered communications consulting and graphic design services to national figures and electoral campaigns. I’m currently the lead writer and communications manager for New Deal Strategies’ general consulting team and am a graduate of Northwestern University in 2019 with a B.S.Ed. in social policy. I’m also a lifelong and current resident of Jersey City (and will not be taking further comment on that at this time).

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for someone to test out my comedy material on – bonus points if they actually laugh.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I love cooking, going to concerts, watching truly terrible romantic comedies and cozying up on the sofa with a book (probably some poetry, but most likely just rereading “Less” by Andrew Sean Greer).

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? If they’re smart, they’ll run in the opposite direction.

Mashal Hashem

Job: Senior associate, Kivvit

Age: 26

Location: Manhattan

Instagram: @mashalhashem

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m originally from the D.C. area, completed my undergrad at Northwestern, where I was a competitive diver, and a graduate degree in Germany. I’ve been working in the public policy or international policy spaces for several years and now reside in New York City.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I am still figuring that out – but a sense of humor, ambition and kindness are important traits. Also a desire to move to Europe.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Working out and spending time with friends.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Typically with, “Why?”

Theresa Hassler

Job: Vice president, government affairs, SCO Family of Services

Age: 43

Location: Harlem, Manhattan

Twitter: @TheresaWithH

Tell us a little about yourself: Originally from the Show Me State – St. Louis, to be exact. I hate poinsettias and love old television shows. I enjoy dancing and cannot imagine living anywhere other than New York City.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? A man who is mature, secure in himself and makes me laugh out loud!

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I like to explore different neighborhoods in the city.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They respond with a combination of fascination and disdain.

Mufazzal Hossain

Job: District director for Assembly Member David Weprin, Democratic district leader in Assembly District 38, Part B

Age: Almost 31

Location: Woodhaven, Queens

Twitter: @mufaz_el

Instagram: @engineerism19

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m an outgoing, fun, loving Bangladeshi American, almost 31-year-old eligible politico, known as the jokester of the group. I’ll never say no to karaoke. I have two degrees in engineering, and I like to spoil the people I care about. I cook, I clean and I have experience working in construction and consulting various campaigns as treasurer. I got involved in public service through the Young Democrats after Trump was elected. In 2020, I was elected Democratic district leader in Assembly District 38, Part B – first-ever Bangladeshi American to be elected into such a position.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? An important aspect of effective communication in a conversation isn’t just about talking, it’s also about being an effective listener. I’d like my partner to be on the same page as I am when it comes to conversations. I don’t believe that my partner and I will have to agree 100% on politics and policy, but I do prefer that my partner is progressive. At the age of almost 31, I’ve realized that family is the most important thing, so I’d definitely appreciate someone who is family-oriented but also outgoing at the same time.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I like to travel, watch movies and throw friends and family get-togethers. I love spending time with my orange tabby cat, listening to music and driving. But on a daily basis, I love to work out for at least one hour a day.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Some people ask me, “Well, where can I donate so that you can run for office?” Other people ask, “Why would you do this to yourself by quitting engineering? Go make money instead please!”

Steven Ileka

Job: Communications specialist, Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno LLC

Age: 27

Location: Flatbush, Brooklyn

Instagram: @s.ileka

Tell us a little about yourself: Born in Queens (St. Albans stand up!), adopted by Brooklyn. A child of a diplomat, I started my own career in this thing we call politics with Sen. (Chuck) Schumer (and the best staff in the Senate) and haven’t looked back since. Currently working as a communications specialist at Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno for our union and nonprofit clients.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Infinite adventure.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I’m a big time lover of wine and I can cut a rug.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Intrigue or irresolution – no in-between.

Anjali Joseph

Job: Senior Associate, Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Age: 33

Location: Brooklyn

Instagram: @anjalisusanjoseph

Tell us a little about yourself: I’ve lived in New York City on and off for 10 years, and just snagged an interview for the Park Slope Co-op (fingers crossed!). I love working in policy and for New York. I’m very charismatic, incisive, funny and curious.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Looking for someone who is passionate about their line of work, and has a dry sense of humor. Someone I can learn from and is interested in learning from me as well. Most importantly, someone who is kind and is interested in building a fun and meaningful partnership.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I cook a lot! I love recreating recipes from places that I’ve been to. I love traveling, exploring neighborhoods in the city, trying out new bars, restaurants, etc. I have a wonderful group of friends and love being with people who are intelligent, grounded and extroverted.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They ask me to fix their train lines!

E.J. Kessler

Job: Journalist and communications professional

Age: Not provided

Location: Northwest Bronx

Twitter: @EJKessler

Tell us a little about yourself: I’ve reported about city and state politics and government for many years and have helped campaigns and clubs with messaging and media relations. I was a spokesperson for two city agencies – including, infamously, the Department of Correction – so I know better than most about how government works. My parents were local New York state politicos, so I’ve been doing/observing politics my whole life and have a long, sociological view of it. A well-known strategist has dubbed me “Election Eve” for my analysis.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for someone smart and engaged who likes to talk about the city and state and beyond. I have a lot of education, an analytical bent, and many intellectual interests, so I’d need someone who appreciates that in a female – which is rarer than you’d think. I’m a divorced mother of two grown children, so someone who has a similar life experience.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I explore New York City neighborhoods – I like to go to an area, people-watch and experience the commerce and street life. I read hefty books! I walk, walk and walk some more, especially in parks. I collect vintage jewelry and have beaded since childhood, so I make crafty gifts. I restore vintage leatherwear. I cook and entertain and celebrate Jewish holidays.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? People are generally turned off by political work, alas. New York City revolves around money, so if you’re not in the bourse, they think you are wasting your time. Not everyone cares about political personalities in the same way we do.

Adrien Lesser

Job: Vice president of media relations, New York City Economic Development Corp.

Age: Mid-20s

Location: Upper East Side, Manhattan

Twitter: @aglesser_

Tell us a little about yourself: I am a native Manhattanite who is appreciative of the finer things in life, like a good black turtleneck and a “Golden Girls” marathon. By day, I am a communications specialist with a keen insight into New York City and national politics. By night, you might be able to find me at the third, fourth or fifth hottest party in New York City, drinking a flight of wine at Amelie’s with Megan Wiley and Miranda Goodwin-Raab, making former District Leader Sylvia di Pietro try a new espresso martini spot or at home with my cats.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I am Fran Fine looking for my (Jewish) Mr. Sheffield.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I am involved in multiple civic, community and religious organizations. I am a steering committee member and co-founder of the Couture Council Young Patrons at the Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology, board member of the East Sixties Neighborhood Association, Frick Young Fellow at the Frick Museum and a part of the Temple Emanu-El Young Members Circle and Philanthropic Committee.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Their eyes usually bug out and then they don’t call me after.

Alec Lewis

Job: Vice president and director of campaigns, O’Donnell & Associates

Age: 34

Location: Capital Region

Twitter: @AlecDLewis

Tell us a little about yourself: I live life every day knowing that I’m a work in progress. Self-care and balance have become a very important part of my life. Being centered physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually are at the core of my foundation. Investing in my own health and fitness journey that I call “Operation Looking Great or OLG” has been truly transformational and helped me to have a healthy GLO.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for a best friend and a true partner. I’m attracted to women who are goal-oriented, kind, intelligent and have a great sense of humor. I’m also looking for someone who at heart is an adventurer and knows how to have fun. I want to be able to invest in that person and have them invest in me. Together, we can help each other accomplish our individual goals as well as supporting one another in shared goals.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? All sorts of things. I prioritize being in the moment, so it really depends on the vibe of the day. I enjoy traveling and checking out new bars and restaurants. I’m a big movie guy and I often love going to the movies by myself as a form of self-care. Karaoke is also one of my favorite activities, and I’ve really enjoyed the relationships I’ve been able to build through the Albany karaoke scene during session.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? It’s tough for people outside of the politics/government sphere to understand it. People often have a negative connotation to politics, but I enjoy attempting to reframe people’s perspectives on it to be more positive. Politics/government, especially at the state and local level, really intersects with people’s everyday lives and I enjoy having those conversations with people who view politics negatively. Good people working both in and around government have the opportunity to improve the lives of others. Being of service is what it’s all about at the end of the day.

Loetitia McMillion

Job: Attorney

Age: 48

Location: Flatbush, Brooklyn

Twitter: @Brooklyngirl56

Tell us a little about yourself: Brooklyn girl forever. Couch potato on the weekends but willing to come out for the right person and the right reasons.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone looking to build a life, honest with a spine willing to tell me the truth.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Yoga, discovering New York City as if I was a tourist.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Mixed emotions.

Dylan Miyoshi

Job: Government and community relations manager, New York State Electric & Gas 

Age: 30

Location: Poughkeepsie

Instagram: @dylanmiyoshi

Tell us a little about yourself: I am a political junkie that was born and raised in Dutchess County who loves collecting vinyl records and finding new exciting restaurants or breweries to try. I consider myself to be a laid back person that is always willing to try something new!

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I am looking for someone who is kind, honest and funny. I would like someone who enjoys going out on adventures but also enjoys a movie night at home.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Outside of politics, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cooking, brewing my own beer, golfing, going to the movies and rooting for the New York Yankees, the Minnesota Vikings and Chelsea FC.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? When I tell people I work in politics, most people ask why would I do that to myself. They assume it is like the TV show “The West Wing,” but I tell them in reality it is like the show “Veep.”

Julio Peña III

Job: District Leader

Age: 39

Location: Sunset Park, Brooklyn

Twitter: @Julio_PenaBK

Tell us a little about yourself: Born and raised in Sunset Park. Proud uncle. Loves reading, movies and Marvel. 

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone fun, honest, passionate and a triple prime voter.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I’ve been spotted at New York Comic Con, and I enjoy exploring the city I love.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? “Oh. How nice of you.”

Alex Pellitteri

Job: Campaign Manager, Marcela Mitaynes for Assembly

Age: 22

Location: Brooklyn

Twitter: @apellitteri43

Tell us a little about yourself: Unfortunately, I have been told I’m like Ben Wyatt with socialist politics, and I can’t disagree. I am a DSA organizer, union staffer, recent CUNY grad, and campaign manager/adviser to Assemblywomen Marcela Mitaynes. I was born and raised in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, to an Italian-American dad and a Honduran mom, meaning I grew up eating two of the best cuisines. I got involved in politics when I was 15 and joined DSA in 2017 after the Bernie Sanders campaign. Since then, I’ve worked to elect more socialists, organized for a New Deal 4 CUNY, and have become moderately good at Twitter.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for someone who has similar interests and ideology, but is also different enough to challenge my worldview and expose me to new ideas and places. They should also want to help me find New York City’s best hamburger.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? When I’m not doing DSA organizing, I like playing and usually losing at chess, practicing taekwondo, trying to find New York City’s best dive bar and collecting political campaign literature.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? I recently told someone I work for a labor union, and they responded by asking if I am in the Mafia (I’m not).

Marcus Salgado

Job: Executive Assistant to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie

Age: 51

Location: Bronx

Tell us a little about yourself: I would say I’m a person who is open and honest, not trying to mislead people. Hardworking.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for kindness, loyalty, understanding – not looks or status. Sense of humor.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Going to the gym, watching sports, going for walks, comedy shows.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Some positive, some negative.

Lee Senior

Job: Office director, Assembly District 18

Age: 35

Location: Mineola

Instagram: @lsxl

Tell us a little about yourself: Lover of God. Born and raised on Long Island. I am a big proponent of self care and never miss a Sunday to indulge in a long bath and home facial. Self-proclaimed trivia queen who loves 90s R&B, good food and good vibes.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I would love someone who is extremely funny and intelligent, adventurous, stylish, decisive and, above all, kind.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I love to travel, bowl, try new restaurants and binge watch Netflix crime series when I am not working.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? People are either amazed or have no idea what the Assembly is.

Kaivan Shroff

Job: Democratic commentator and strategist

Age: 29

Location: Chelsea, Manhattan

Twitter: @KaivanShroff

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m a New York native who just moved back to the city this summer after finishing a joint JD/MPP program at Harvard Law School and the Kennedy School of Government. You may know me from Twitter, where I advocate for progressive causes and candidates. I also serve as senior adviser to the Institute for Education, a nonprofit dedicated to soft diplomacy. I’m an alum of the digital team at Hillary for America and also hold an MBA from the Yale School of Management.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Looking for someone who will overanalyze episodes of reality TV with me as political comms practice, who doesn’t take themselves too seriously and who can make me think.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Binge watch all the TV, chug iced coffee, explore new New York City sushi spots and hang out with friends.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? One of two ways: Recount their every opinion on issues of the day or warn me that they don’t follow the news. But we won’t have that problem because apparently you read City & State!

Vanessa Simon

Job: Co-founder, Gotham Rising

Age: 37

Location: Manhattan

Instagram: @Vanessa4NY

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m an HR business partner by profession and political operative by passion. I was born in Florida and raised on Long Island. First-generation American who truly enjoys helping to educate and engage millennials and those after us on politics.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? A man of faith, driven/ambitious and a family man.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Aside from spending time with my nieces and nephews, I enjoy going to sporting events: Knicks/Giants/Yankees. And I also love a good rooftop in New York City.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They wonder why lol. But I blame the times – how polarized politics has become, in addition to the lack of education around civics and how it shapes everything around us.

Mo Sumbundu

Job: International trade manager, Empire State Development

Age: 31

Location: Buffalo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mo.sumbundu/

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m originally from the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Currently, I reside and work in Buffalo where I get to be a part of the revitalization of Western New York through my work for Empire State Development’s Global New York division. I hold a master’s degree in public administration from Buffalo State University. I also serve as a representative of Gov. Kathy Hochul in the Western New York region by helping to build and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, community leaders and advocacy/issue groups. Volunteering is an important part of my life. I’ve worked with great organizations such as FeedMore WNY, Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the New York City Department of Education’s Students in Temporary Housing program. I currently serve on the boards of the Buffalo Museum of Science, Tifft Nature Preserve and am a member of the Hilbert College 2025 Advisory Council.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone who is caring, kind, interested in traveling and wants to have a family someday.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? When I’m not working, you can find me salsa dancing, listening to smooth jazz, traveling (I love Cuba), hiking, hanging out with my friends or looking for the next Luke Bryan concert to attend.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? So … are you planning to run for office?

Jachele Walker

Job: Senior adviser to state Sen. Cordell Cleare

Age: 29

Location: Manhattan

Twitter: @JacheleWalker

Tell us a little about yourself: ​When I am not working, I like volunteering on campaigns or helping with community efforts. It feels good to remind myself I would do this work for free. The first time I truly learned about politics was when I was in college and needed gas money to get to and from campus. I started as a canvasser for a state Senate race and ended up as a field manager spending late nights entering data with politicos. That campaign was pivotal in understanding my life’s purpose. I realized my community was not familiar with our government, nor the possibilities of their participation. From there, it became personal, and the rest is history.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone who genuinely works to improve themselves and things around them, who can take the lead on making plans when they want to spend time together, a person who appreciates the little things in life, and is OK with not being on the scene or needing to say something all the time.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Exercise, read, watch fashion shows on YouTube, film photography, art galleries, fellowship with friends, volunteer, take myself to dinner and drink Negronis.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? It varies. Sometimes people are impressed and want to relate. Most of the time people say, “Oh cool,” and we move on.

Seth Wallace

Job: Deputy News Editor, Buffalo News

Age: 37

Location: Elmwood Village, Buffalo

Twitter: @HeySethReadThis

Tell us a little about yourself: 37, lifelong upstater. 15 years in New York politics and media, including running the Oswego Palladium-Times newspaper and now part of the Buffalo News. I’m divorced with one 11-year-old son who lives with his mother back in Oswego. Fredonia State grad, Geneseo native. Seven years sober.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Similar passion for New York state current events and politics. A desire to achieve shared goals. Laughs at my awful ancient Rome memes.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? Play my guitars (recently A LOT since the weather stinks), go to the gym, cook, keep up with my friends via group chat or email.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? Usually pretty interested because “newspaper editor” is a pretty uncommon profession now. A lot of my job is writing headlines and I like to talk about my process for it.

Alexandria Wojcik

Job: Deputy mayor, village of New Paltz

Age: Not provided

Location: New Paltz

Twitter: @AlexandriaPaltz

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m a gonzo woman in politics, a lifelong activist and community organizer who ran a successful zero-dollar campaign for my local village board. Public service is turning out to be my favorite art project yet. Housing justice and where it intersects with climate justice and undoing white supremacy and dismantling the patriarchy troubles my sleep and haunts my every waking hour. I love volunteering with my town’s Democratic Committee and am proud to be beginning my second term as the Ulster County Democrats’ first-ever vice chair of fundraising. I have the outline of New York’s old 19th Congressional District tattooed on my forearm as a reminder of my community’s resilience and my work in the field during the 2018 election cycle when we flipped that old district red to blue. I’m also a published poet, a former college writing adjunct and music journalist, and a proud member of the international Hemingway Society. My two cats, Severin and Calamity Jane, are my greatest confidants besides the Shawangunks.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? I’m looking for the special someone to shout-out when I win my reelection this November! Eventually I’ll successfully convince this dreamy guy or gal to co-sign a mortgage, and we’ll live happily ever after here in Ulster County. Short of all that, I’m looking for someone who makes me laugh and is down for lots of adventures and stargazing, and who is either very patient while I work admittedly a little bit too hard or who is an active participant while I continue working to make the world a little bit more beautiful. A makeout partner who appreciates dubstep nearly as much as left-leaning politics would be all right too.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I love to: write (poetry, creative nonfiction, essays about Hemingway, dance music reviews), explore frozen waterfalls in winter and secret swimming holes in summer, roller skate by the Ashokan Reservoir, support my local music scene, run away to dance music festivals every chance I get, register people to vote at my local dive bar, hang with my local DSA chapter, wear eco-glitter to drag shows and dance parties, and hike every chance I get.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They usually say, “Oh I’d vote for you!” But sometimes people pause and point out my rainbow hair (to which I start singing “I did it my way …”).

Jonathan Wolf

Job: Assistant director of strategic campaigns, J Street

Age: 30

Location: Brooklyn

Twitter: @THEjonathanwolf

Tell us a little about yourself: A lifelong New Yorker (with a brief stint in Boston) working in progressive advocacy for a nonprofit. I made the move to Brooklyn and feel like an imposter without a dog or a stroller. I inject humor into all the right and wrong moments. I find folding laundry therapeutic and live for the Yankees, Giants and Knicks. Infatuated with the silver screen and dairy-free ice cream sandwiches. My ideal running weather is cool with light rain.

What are you looking for in a romantic partner? Someone to laugh at my jokes, watch horror films alongside, and (perhaps, most importantly) indulge my love of the Dunkin’ Rewards app. You don’t mind a lazy Saturday or Sunday, but you’ll also kick my butt into gear if I’m being lame. In essence, I’m looking for the Summer Roberts to my Seth Cohen.

What do you do for fun outside of politics? I enjoy a nice jog in Prospect Park while listening to my favorite podcasts/sports talk radio. My friends are adventurous, so we’ll pick a neighborhood and eat our way through it for the day. I’m always down to go to the movies – I’ll even share my popcorn! I’ve made it my mission this year to read more books … we’ll see how long that plan lasts.

How do people respond when you tell them you work in politics? They want to discuss politics … ugh. I enjoy some political talk, but I don’t want it to overwhelm my life! I’m all about keeping work and play separate as much as possible.