Diana Ayala


Diana Ayala is an American politician, currently serving as a member of the New York City Council. Ayala won the seat being vacated by Melissa Mark-Viverito in 2017. The district includes Concourse, East Harlem, Highbridge, Longwood, Mott Haven, Port Morris, and Randall's Island. She is a member of the Democratic Party.

Early life and education

Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, she and her family moved to New York City as a child. They lived in public housing after living in shelters. She received an associate degree in Human Services from Bronx Community College.

Career

Ayala worked as a Senior Center Director in East Harlem for seven years. She then served as Constituent Services Director and Deputy Chief of Staff for her predecessor, Melissa Mark-Viverito.

New York City Council

Diana Ayala ran against three other candidates in the Democratic primary for the open 8th city council district. Ayala had the support of Melissa Mark-Viverito, the term-limited incumbent and Speaker. Ayala's main primary opponent was Robert J. Rodriguez, an assemblyman. Ayala won the primary narrowly with 43.5% of the vote to Rodriguez's 42.23%. In the general election, Ayala won 91.07% of the vote., while her Republican opponent, Daby Carreras, won 5.26% and her Conservative opponent, Linda Ortiz, won 3.30% of the vote.

Personal life

Ayala and her long-time partner live in East Harlem She has four children and three grandchildren.