New York City Council member representing District 8 in East Harlem and the South Bronx since January 2026. Daughter of Puerto Rican parents, born and raised in East Harlem. Succeeded Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala after winning the 2025 election with 85% of the vote. Previously served as Ayala's chief of staff for over a decade.
EE
Serving
Elsie Encarnacion
City CouncilDemocrat
NY-NYC Council District 8 City Council
About
Family & Heritage
Daughter of Puerto Rican parents. Born and raised in East Harlem. Born at the only public hospital in the district. Daughter of a public school educator. Educated in the District 4 public school system.
Political Career
Before Politics
Chief of Staff to Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala for over a decade; Director of Youth Services for NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito; Leadership roles at Union Settlement and Innovation High School; Member of Community Board 11; Education and community organizing work in District 8
Key Issues & Priorities
Youth development and education access
Housing stability and affordability
Economic opportunity and poverty alleviation
Immigration (chairs Immigration Committee)
Public housing and NYCHA resources
Public safety