With 108 days until the Democratic primary, and 98 days until early voting starts, it's time for New Yorkers to start getting acquainted with the 13 candidates—11 Democrats, one Republican, and one Independent—who are vying to become the next mayor of New York City.
Sure, you could read up on their records and policy proposals, but we know that you are hungry for a different breed of information—one that is fast and pre-metabolized by some of the sharpest minds in politics. This is the straight dope that powerful people pay for, the stuff you can't get anywhere else.
Without further ado, here's where the current field stands.
PLATINUM TIER
Andrew Cuomo—The former governor finally emerged from the shadows with a breathtaking 17-minute launch video (Literally—he does not appear to breathe while he talks at you. Wow!) and ended this week with another great poll showing that he leads the pack with 31 percent of would-be voters. He loses a few points for admitting out loud that he made mistakes during a press gaggle. Governor, next time just get back in the Dodge Charger and rev the engine.
Adrienne Adams—Does the City Council Speaker have a chance at winning Gracie Mansion? With low name recognition, a close-to-empty bank account, and just 12 weeks to change both of those things, probably not. Does she have a chance at spoiling the hopes of Cuomo and her old Bayside High classmate, Eric Adams? Could be! Other people on this list should buy her a drink.
Whitney Tilson—This crusading former hedge fund manager had a great appearance on CNBC recently. [DISCLOSURE: I may or may not be taking money from a different hedge fund guy who has been backing Mr. Tilson, among other exercises of their First Amendment right to free speech. These power rankings are for entertainment purposes only.]
Undecided—You simply must pay attention to this fresh-faced, mysterious newcomer killing it with a mononym (move over, Madonna!) and 16 percent support from voters in a recent Quinnipiac poll. If you happen to know who is running their comms operation, please tell them to get in touch—there's a lot of synergy to be driven with the right guidance.