Erik Bottcher is a Democratic member of the New York State Senate representing District 47, which covers areas from Greenwich Village to Manhattan Valley on Manhattan's West Side, including neighborhoods like Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and the Upper West Side. Born on May 9, 1979, in Wilmington, a small town in New York's Adirondack Mountains, he grew up facing personal challenges as the only openly gay person he knew, including struggles with depression due to bullying, which inspired his lifelong commitment to progressive causes and marginalized communities. He assumed office on February 4, 2026, after winning a special election to succeed Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who became Manhattan Borough President. Previously, Bottcher served on the New York City Council for District 3 , representing West Village, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and nearby areas; he was elected in 2021 and re-elected in 2025.

Notable achievements include leading on mental health crises by passing legislation for on-site mental health services in family homeless shelters and suicide prevention resources in schools; advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, including grassroots campaigns for marriage equality under Governor Andrew Cuomo, which helped legalize same-sex marriage in New York in 2011; and building a reputation as an effective leader on housing, sanitation, sustainability, and community services during his time as Chief of Staff to Council Member Corey Johnson .

Education and Political Experience

Specific details on Bottcher's formal education are not widely documented in public records. His political career began in 2009 as LGBTQ & HIV/AIDS Community Liaison for the New York City Council, organizing campaigns on hate crimes, transgender rights, HIV/AIDS housing, and marriage equality. In 2011, he served as LGBTQ Community Liaison for Governor Andrew Cuomo, mobilizing support for the Marriage Equality Act. From 2015 to 2021, he was Chief of Staff to NYC Council Member Corey Johnson, handling constituent services and community partnerships. He then won and held the NYC Council District 3 seat until transitioning to the State Senate in 2026. Bottcher is also a co-founder of United Thru Action, a progressive resistance group, and a member of Village Independent Democrats, actively supporting Democratic efforts in key elections.