Tyrell Hankerson, the district chief of staff for Council Member Adrienne Adams, has officially announced his candidacy for the City Council District 28 seat in the upcoming 2025 election. Born in 1994, Hankerson would become the youngest city council member to represent District 28 if elected. This district includes the neighborhoods of Richmond Hill, Jamaica, South Ozone Park, and Rochdale Village, as well as a significant portion of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Hankerson kicked off his campaign at the Rochdale Village Community Center, where he was joined by over 100 supporters, including community members, political figures, and family. During the event, he highlighted his background in community service and outlined key points of his platform, which include public safety, economic development, and improving overall quality of life in the district.
Council Member Adams, who is set to be termed out next year, has expressed her full support for Hankerson’s candidacy, citing his dedication to the community and his track record of advocacy for District 28 residents. Additionally, other local elected officials and community leaders, such as Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Kyle Bragg, have also endorsed Hankerson’s campaign.
Having joined Adams’ office in 2017 as an outreach director and scheduler, Hankerson has since been elected as district leader for AD32 Part B in the 2024 primary election. He has also been appointed to various leadership roles, including the Queens Borough President’s Leadership Council of the Jamaica Now Action Plan and the Health + Hospitals Community Advisory Board in Queens.
In addition to Hankerson, two other candidates, LaToya LeGrand and Romeo Hitlall, have begun fundraising efforts for the District 28 seat. LeGrand, who serves as a constituent services representative for Assembly Member Vivian Cook, and Hitlall, a Community Board 10 member and real estate broker, are both running in the Democratic primary alongside Hankerson in 2025.
Overall, Hankerson’s campaign for the District 28 seat aims to bring a fresh perspective and strong advocacy to the diverse communities within the district. With his experience in community service and leadership roles, he hopes to address pressing issues and work towards a brighter future for all residents of District 28.