This election has drawn significant interest from politicians looking to advance their careers, as the extension of New York City term limits allows more incumbents to seek reelection.

[2] Despite the extension of term limits in late 2008, the outgoing public advocate, Betsy Gotbaum announced that she would not run for reelection.

[13] On March 10, Fordham Law School hosted a town hall meeting with Gioia, Siegel, de Blasio and Green.

The organizer said that he believed students wanted to see the Democratic contenders first, and wished to set up a debate including Zablocki in the future.

[18][19] Alex Zablocki was endorsed by all five Republican county organizations in New York City,[20] led by his home borough of Staten Island.

[24][25] Tuesday, September 29, 2009 Official returns (as reported on October 20, 2009): Bill de Blasio became the Democratic nominee for public advocate.