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Albany Common Council President Corey Ellis will make a third bid to become mayor of Albany. He announced his run Tuesday in the former Jack’s Oyster House restaurant, where he called for changes to make Albany a city of opportunity and excitement.
Ellis told supporters that “together, we can reimagine Albany’s future.” He said that while the more than 100-year-old "Jack’s" is now closed, it serves as a reminder that in every loss is an opportunity.
"Albany challenges are not insurmountable,” said Ellis, who has been council president since 2018. “They are opportunities to be seized upon."
He ended his speech by saying change was not just possible, it was necessary.
Ellis joins a race to succeed Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, who is not seeking reelection after three terms in office. Also running to become Albany’s 76th mayor are City Auditor Dorcey Applyrs, Albany County Legislator Carolyn McLaughlin and political newcomer Dan Cerutti.
Mayors in Albany serve four-year terms. Primary elections in New York are scheduled for June 24, 2025.
Ellis said he was running for mayor to create a city residents can take pride in, a place where history and progress coexist.
He said the city faced multiple challenges, including economic disparity and an aging infrastructure.
“Albany’s economic landscape has changed drastically since COVID,” Ellis said, adding that remote work and online shopping had weakened the local economy.
“Outdated strategies are no longer enough,” he said.
If elected, Ellis said he would attract investors, establish a business council and work to incentivize housing. He pledged to work with organizations and churches to expand after-school activities and lift the quality of life in Albany.
“I’m reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said faith is taking the first step when you don’t see the whole staircase,” Ellis said. “Today, we take that first step together toward a brighter, stronger Albany.”
Corey’s slogan is “change can’t wait.” It’s right on point. Our Capital City has been suffering from blight in various forms. Corey is the most grassroots candidate, with the greatest commitment to change, and the highest level of energy to make it happen. His announcement united businesspeople and the neighborhoods. And that’s what we need going forward.
Assemblymember Phil Steck said he is backing Ellis.
"Our Capital City has been suffering from blight in various forms. Corey is the most grassroots candidate, with the greatest commitment to change, and the highest level of energy to make it happen. His announcement united businesspeople and the neighborhoods. And that’s what we need going forward," Steck said in a statement.
