In response to Randy Mastro withdrawing his name from consideration for Corporation Counsel, the New York City Council released the following statement from spokesperson, Julia Agos:

“While we are glad to see the unnecessary conflict and divisiveness that Randy Mastro’s nomination represented come to an end, his withdrawal letter demonstrates why so many lacked trust that he would be a suitable lawyer for all city officials, rather than just for the mayor. From the outset, Council Members raised concerns about his record and the ability to trust that he would be a lawyer for the Council and entire City. Mr. Mastro offered no real accounting or accountability for the areas of his record during the Giuliani Administration and afterwards that many found harmful to Black, Latino, and marginalized communities, while also showing him to be politically loyal. New York City needs a top attorney who is independent and willing to stand up when the political interests of an administration conflict with the public interests of New Yorkers. Given the challenges raised about his nomination far in advance, it should have been no surprise that his record would be heavily scrutinized at a lengthy hearing.

“We look forward to working with the Administration to advance a nominee who is unifying rather than divisive, has the trust of all city elected officials, and can secure support from the Council.”

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