For over 125 years, Citizens Union (CU) has been devoted to holding our local government accountable with the highest ethical standards and fighting for political reforms that improve New York democracy. A nonpartisan organization, we have sought to increase voter participation and expand voting rights, limit the role of money in elections, strengthen ethics oversight, and much more. 

Why and how do we evaluate candidates for office? 

To promote fair and open elections, honest and accountable government, and a civically engaged public, we evaluate candidates running for office in New York City and back those who strongly support reform. Our evaluations are done through questionnaires, independent research, and interviews conducted by CU members. Since 1910, we have published a Voters Directory before every election with a nonpartisan evaluation of the candidates. In general elections, we also publish our positions on ballot questions. 

While some national and local media have discontinued offering endorsements in elections, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing voters with the clear, nonpartisan information they need to make informed decisions. Now more than ever, New Yorkers deserve a reliable resource to help them understand who is best equipped to serve New York City.

What were the candidates asked?

Candidate questionnaires cover Citizens Union’s reform agenda on issues like elections and voting, campaign finance, ethics in government, police accountability, checks and balances, as well as the specific concerns related to the office they seek.

You can download a copy of this year’s blank questionnaire here (.docx file).

• Mayor
• Comptroller
• Borough President
• City Council

How is support for candidates decided?

Support for Citizens Union’s reform agenda is the primary criterion used in deciding our support for a candidate.

Other criteria considered in evaluating candidates and campaigns:

• A record of ethical integrity
• Commitment and ability to advance CU’s goals, if elected
• For incumbents: demonstrated support for CU’s issues while in office
• Evidence of ability to wage an effective and competitive campaign
• Reliance on small-donor, local financing of the campaign
• Candidates’ grasp of issues specific to the race’s jurisdiction and whether they propose thoughtful solutions to represent constituents’ interests

Evaluation of the candidates and the decision to support a particular candidate shall be made without regard to political party and in a nonpartisan manner.

See more in our candidate evaluation principles and criteria.

Levels of support for candidates

CU issues a “preference” to express support in a party primary election and an “endorsement” to express support in a general election.

CU issues a “No Preference” or “No Endorsement” in races that do not provide a clear-cut example of one candidate more closely aligned with our agenda. In primaries, CU might issue a “Dual Preference” designation to two qualified candidates but only as a last resort. We will explain our reasoning in our Voters Guide. We do not issue a “Dual Endorsement” in the general election.

Some candidates may receive Citizens Union’s preference in a party primary election but not an endorsement in the general election. These candidates are allowed to campaign with CU’s primary preference, but if they have not been endorsed in the general election, they may not use any of CU’s logos or images during the general election campaign.

Can I see who you supported in the past?

Yes. You can see previous Voter Directories here. Over the years, we have supported and endorsed hundreds of candidates for office from across the political spectrum. We provide all candidates with the opportunity to present their case to our members and conduct an open process that evaluates their policy plans and vision for the office and is not beholden to any party power structure.

How can I contact you? The best way to contact us is by emailing candidates@citizensunion.org.