Special Announcement

Last night and currently as I type this, I am inspired by Senator Cory Booker speaking (17 hours so far) about all of us taking responsibility to do more for our country and doing something different in order to “right the ship.” He quoted our mutual hero, the late John Lewis, who said we all need to “get into good trouble” and this has really resonated with me. So today, I would like to get into some good trouble my announcing my candidacy for Mayor of New York.

I know this is going to come as a real shocker to many of friends and employees. I mean, we just finished producing our incredible Patti Smith Tribute at Carnegie Hall. It is also not the greatest timing for City Winery as we are about to really enter a time of significant growth, but I feel compelled to help our great City. It is really time for a change.

As Cory said, “it is time to recognize the urgency, the crisis of the moment”. While I’ve been a big supporter of my friend Brad Lander who would make a great Mayor, or Scott Stringer, or outspoken about some concerns I have about Cuomo or Mayor Adams, I believe a strong business leader is required to get the business of New York City back on track. While I don’t have Bloomberg’s money or even brains, I do offer very nice free lunches to my employees too. I have a few thoughts about the park system as well as the subway system, so today, on April 1st, I am writing this April fools note.

If after the first paragraph you thought I was remotely serious, well, then you are a fool. I can’t run for office for many reasons. I grew pot in college before it became legal to do so, I scalped a few Lou Reed tickets on the street in front of the Knitting Factory in 1995 for some needed cash, and as nice a guy as I might seem, I am a rock and roller who could never be full time in public office dedicating myself to the community. I am way too selfish. I applaud true civil servants. May Spring bring lots of sunshine to us all, lots of rose drinkers to my outdoor locations and bring light to all of you my foolish friends.

-Michael Dorf