Forget Term Limits: NYC Needs Mike

Political foes gone, power elite diminished, moneyed mayor calls all the shots

(NEWSER) - Say what you will about Michael Bloomberg—the perfect mayor for New York in a financial crisis or arrogant billionaire who's pretty much bought an unprecedented third term—above all, Chris Smith writes, he is “a one-man Establishment.” A perfect storm of his personal fortune, the vagaries of international finance, and the shifting demographics of the city’s political classes makes Bloomberg the “only powerful figure in New York who really matters.” And that will likely be true for four more years. More»

Mayor aims to change NYC's term-limits law

(NEWSER) - New York insiders say Mayor Michael Bloomberg will attempt to change existing laws and run for a third term, the Times reports, with his announcement to come Thursday. After long supporting term limits, Bloomberg, 66, has softened, with the financial crisis seen as a significant motivator. If successful, Bloomberg would be the fourth three-term mayor in modern times. More»

(NEWSER) - New York’s City Council voted today to allow a third term for elected officials, paving the way for another Michael Bloomberg administration, the New York Daily News reports. Last-minute wrangling in the chamber, including a failed vote to establish a referendum on the issue, led to the 29-22 victory. “The City Council decided to give the people of New York a fuller choice in the November 2009 election,” Bloomberg said. More»

New York City Council will consider measure to extend term limits

(NEWSER) - A controversial bill to ditch the two-term limit for New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg and dozens of other city officials will be introduced next week, reports the New York Times. City Council members believe Bloomberg has enough support to pass the measure, though supporters and critics alike are nonplussed by the lack of details being provided. The council vote could come later this month. More»

'Unprecedented challenges' push NYC mayor to seek 3rd term

(NEWSER) - Michael Bloomberg is officially seeking a third term to rescue New York from "meltdown" in the financial crisis, the Daily News reports. “I don’t want to walk away,” the mayor said in explaining why he intends to rewrite city rules despite thinking “term limits is a good idea.” Asked if he's motivated by ego, Bloomberg replied, “I don't think so.” More»