SAM FEIN EARNS ENDORSEMENTS IN ALBANY CITY AUDITOR RACE AS LEADERS CALL FOR INDEPENDENT OVERSIGHT AND REFORM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2025
Albany, NY — A growing coalition of leaders and organizations are uniting behind Albany County Legislator Sam Fein in his campaign for Albany City Auditor, declaring him the only candidate ready to move Albany into the future. Fein is running on a platform of transparency, accountability, and real oversight—at a time when many Albany residents are frustrated with a status quo that hasn’t delivered, and are looking for leadership that’s not tied to it.
Fein has earned support from respected advocates, elected officials, and independent watchdogs across New York State, including:
Barbara Smith, social justice activist and former Albany Common Councilmember
Judith Enck, environmental champion and former EPA Regional Administrator, appointed by President Barack Obama
Phil Steck, NYS Assemblymember, 110th District
Jumaane Williams, New York City Public Advocate
Nairobi Vives, Chair of the Albany Community Police Review Board
Alex Marion, Syracuse City Auditor
Dan Aymar-Blair, Dutchess County Comptroller
“Sam’s independent, progressive vision, and his commitment to transparency and social justice reflect the values our communities deserve,” said Barbara Smith. “Sam understands that real accountability means listening to people, delivering results, and being willing to hold power accountable.”
Judith Enck echoed that sentiment: “Sam Fein always puts people first. He’s not afraid to challenge the status quo or push back against those in power when it’s the right thing to do. On issue after issue, he’s stood with those of us fighting to protect public health and the environment. He’s honest, hard-working, and exactly the kind of public servant we need.”
Jumaane Williams, NYC Public Advocate—the city’s official watchdog who provides oversight of city agencies and investigates complaints about city services—voiced strong support for Fein: “Sam’s commitment to equity and accountability reflects the same values I’ve fought for. He’s not afraid to push for real reforms that address the needs of everyday people—from reimagining public safety to expanding affordable housing,” said Williams. “I’m confident he’ll bring integrity and independent leadership to Albany city government.”
Nairobi Vives highlighted Sam’s commitment: “As Chair of the Albany Community Police Review Board, I’ve seen who truly shows up for accountability. Sam Fein has consistently stood with us in the fight for fairness and real oversight. While others have tried to sideline our work or obstruct reform, Sam has had our back from day one.”
Fein’s campaign has also been endorsed by the Working Families Party, Citizen Action of New York, 1199SEIU, Albany County Young Democrats, and NYPAN, each citing his experience and consistent advocacy for the public.
At a time when the federal government is cutting essential programs and weakening oversight, Fein’s supporters see him as a critical bulwark at the local level. As City Auditor, Fein pledges to conduct independent audits to ensure public dollars serve the public good.
“We’re seeing it across the country—less funding, less accountability, and more decisions made behind closed doors—decisions benefiting those in power rather than the people,” said Fein. “In Albany, this isn’t new either. There’s a long history of political decisions being made behind closed doors—shaped by insiders, not the communities they impact. And while progress has been made, that history still lingers. As City Auditor, I’ll bring sunlight into city government, ensuring it is transparent, community-driven, and accountable to everyone.”
Fein’s candidacy comes at a time when Albany residents are calling for a break from politics as usual. They want a City Hall that’s transparent, accountable, and rooted in the needs of everyday people. Sam has a plan to deliver real oversight starting on day one:
Auditing property assessment fairness to bring clarity and transparency to how property values are calculated and ensure the appeals process is fair and accessible.
Auditing city service response times for complaints like potholes and code violations to provide clear metrics to the public and improve service delivery across all neighborhoods.
Auditing fiscal impacts of the Trump Administration’s budget cuts to help the city plan ahead with clear, public analysis.
With a record of independence and public service, Fein brings direct experience from working in the City Auditor’s Office and nearly a decade serving as a County Legislator. Known for digging into the details and asking tough questions, he offers a clear alternative to politics as usual: honest leadership, real oversight, and a city government that works for everyone.
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