Frank Morano (New York)

Frank Morano (Republican Party) is a member of the New York City Council, representing District 51. He assumed office on May 13, 2025. His current term ends on December 31, 2025.

Morano (Republican Party, Conservative Party) is running for re-election to the New York City Council to represent District 51. He is on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025. He advanced from the Republican primary on June 24, 2025.

Morano (SI Patriotism Party) also ran in a special election to the New York City Council to represent District 51. He won in the special general election on April 29, 2025.

Morano completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Frank Morano was born in Staten Island, New York. He earned a high school diploma from Tottenville High School and a bachelor's degree from New York University in 2005. His career experience includes working as a radio talk show host.^[1]

Elections

2025

Regular election

General election

General election for New York City Council District 51

Incumbent Frank Morano, Clifford Hagen, and John Buthorn are running in the general election for New York City Council District 51 on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate
		Frank Morano (R / Conservative Party)
	Submit photo	Clifford Hagen (D)
		John Buthorn (Patriot Workers Party)

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic Primary for New York City Council District 51

The following candidates advanced in the ranked-choice voting election: Clifford Hagen in round 1 .

	There are no incumbents in this race.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Republican primary election

Republican Primary for New York City Council District 51

The following candidates advanced in the ranked-choice voting election: Frank Morano in round 1 .

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 4,048
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

Special election

General election

General election for New York City Council District 51

The ranked-choice voting election was won by Frank Morano in round 1 .

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 9,591
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Morano in this election.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Frank Morano completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Morano's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm passionate about making government more accountable, elections more democratic, and life more affordable for everyday New Yorkers. I support non-partisan local elections, civic education, and community board empowerment to give people a real voice in government. I want to ease the financial burden on seniors and homeowners while ensuring fair utility rates. I’m committed to improving transit options, reducing red tape for small businesses, and celebrating Staten Island’s unique spirit. Whether it's cutting taxes, expanding ferry service, or fighting against congestion pricing, I believe in policies that put Staten Islanders first.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The New York City Council is unique because it serves as the legislative body of the largest city in the country while also functioning as a check on the mayor’s power. Unlike state or federal legislatures, it has direct control over local laws, the city budget, land use decisions, and oversight of city agencies that impact daily life.

What makes it especially important is its ability to shape policies that affect everything from public safety and education to housing and transportation. The Council determines how billions of taxpayer dollars are allocated, ensuring that communities like Staten Island get their fair share.

Additionally, City Council members appoint community board members, giving them a crucial role in local decision-making. That’s why it’s essential to appoint people who share my vision for Staten Island. The Council is the voice of the people at the city level, and when used effectively, it can be a powerful force for accountability, transparency, and common-sense governance.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to a mix of local and national figures who embody the qualities I admire in leadership. Steve Fiala for his intellect and independence, Jimmy Oddo for his incredible work ethic and energy, Vinny Ignizio for his ability to get things done, and Joe Borelli for his exceptional communication skills.

On a broader scale, I respect figures like Ralph Nader, Jesse Ventura, and Pat Buchanan for their willingness to take on establishment sacred cows, challenge the status quo, and put principle over party. Alan Dershowitz stands out for his intellectual consistency and commitment to independence, even when it’s unpopular. Each of these individuals demonstrates qualities I believe are essential for effective leadership.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

If someone wants to understand my political philosophy—one that rejects rigid partisan labels in favor of common sense, accountability, and putting everyday people first—I’d recommend a mix of books and films that highlight both the failures of the political establishment and the power of grassroots action.

Books:
Right from the Beginning by Pat Buchanan – A sharp critique of political elites and an unapologetic defense of traditional values, working-class interests, and national sovereignty.
Unstoppable: The Emerging Left-Right Alliance to Dismantle the Corporate State by Ralph Nader – A powerful case for how populists on the left and right can unite against corporate corruption and government overreach.
Don’t Start the Revolution Without Me by Jesse Ventura – A blunt, anti-establishment take on government corruption, media manipulation, and the need for independent voices in politics.
Films & Documentaries:
Network (1976) – A scathing critique of corporate media, government, and how institutions manipulate public opinion.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) – The ultimate story of an outsider fighting against corruption and entrenched power.
Bulworth (1998) – A darkly comedic look at how politicians sell out, and what happens when one finally starts telling the truth.

At the heart of my political philosophy is the belief that government should work for the people—not the donors, lobbyists, or career politicians who make empty promises. I believe in breaking through the partisan nonsense to focus on real issues: lowering costs for working families, fighting corruption, protecting public safety, and ensuring New York City remains a place where regular people—not just the well-connected—can thrive.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should have integrity, accountability, and a strong commitment to public service. They must be honest, transparent, and willing to put the interests of their constituents above personal or political gain. Leadership requires the ability to listen, make tough decisions, and stand firm on principles while remaining open to dialogue. Pragmatism is key—solutions should be based on results, not ideology. A good official should be accessible, responsive, and always willing to engage with the community. Ultimately, they must be dedicated to improving the lives of the people they serve, not just maintaining their own power.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe my independence, work ethic, and ability to communicate effectively would make me a successful officeholder. I have the intellect to analyze complex issues, the integrity to stand by my principles, and the character to put my constituents above political gamesmanship. Like the leaders I admire, I am unafraid to challenge establishment sacred cows and fight for policies that truly serve the people. My strong work ethic and commitment to transparency ensure that I will be fully engaged in the responsibilities of the office, while my ability to connect with people across ideological lines will help me build coalitions to get things done for Staten Island and New York City.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Legislating for the City – Introducing, debating, and passing laws that shape everything from public safety and housing to education and business regulations. The Council also has oversight power over city agencies, ensuring they operate effectively and in the public interest.

Budget Oversight – Reviewing and approving the city’s $100+ billion budget, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely on essential services like schools, sanitation, policing, and infrastructure. Council members also advocate for funding for their districts' specific needs.

Constituent Services – Acting as a direct link between city government and residents, addressing complaints, helping with city services, and advocating for community concerns. Whether it's resolving issues with NYCHA, addressing sanitation complaints, or helping small businesses navigate city regulations, a Council member serves as a problem-solver.

Land Use & Zoning Decisions – Playing a major role in shaping the physical landscape of the city by influencing decisions on real estate development, affordable housing, and neighborhood planning. Council members have significant influence over projects in their districts.

Public Safety & Quality of Life – Working with the NYPD, FDNY, and other agencies to ensure safe streets, combat crime, and address quality-of-life issues like noise complaints, homelessness, and traffic congestion.

Holding the Mayor & City Agencies Accountable – Through hearings, investigations, and oversight, Council members ensure the mayor and city agencies act in the best interest of New Yorkers and don’t waste public funds.

Advocating for Policy Priorities – Whether it's improving education, expanding transportation, or reforming policing, Council members use their platform to advocate for policies that reflect their constituents' needs.

Appointing the Right People to Community Boards – Council members appoint local community boar

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to restore pride in Staten Island's neighborhoods and be seen as the world's biggest cheerleader for Staten Island residents and businesses.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Going with my parents to vote in the 1988 Presidential election. I was 4.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked in my Uncle Joe's show repair shop starting at the age of 13 on Saturdays for two years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

"The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy" is my favorite book because it blends sharp wit, satire, and deep philosophical questions in a way that’s both hilarious and thought-provoking. Douglas Adams takes complex ideas—about bureaucracy, power, the absurdity of human nature—and distills them into an entertaining and wildly imaginative story. It’s a reminder not to take everything too seriously, to question authority, and to always keep a sense of humor—all valuable lessons in both life and politics. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of carrying a towel and knowing that the answer to everything is 42?

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I’d probably go with Captain James T. Kirk from Star Trek. He’s bold, resourceful, and never backs down from a challenge—plus, who wouldn’t want to explore the galaxy while outwitting enemies and charming their way through diplomacy? But if I’m being honest, I wouldn’t mind being Michael Bluth from Arrested Development either—trying to keep a dysfunctional group together while dealing with absurd situations feels oddly familiar. And on some days, I’d love to be Ted Lasso—leading with optimism, humor, and a relentless belief in people, even when the odds are stacked against him.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"Islands in the Stream"

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Balancing professional and family time commitments is a constant struggle.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Yes, there are several lesser-known but important powers that the New York City Council holds that more people should be aware of:

Land Use & Zoning Control – The Council has final say over major land use and zoning decisions, which directly impact development, housing, and neighborhood character. This means council members can push for or block major projects, shaping the future of their districts.

Community Board Appointments – Each council member appoints local community board members, giving them significant influence over neighborhood planning, services, and quality-of-life issues. That’s why it’s crucial to appoint people who share my vision for Staten Island.

Agency Oversight & Investigations – The Council has the power to investigate city agencies and hold hearings on issues like wasteful spending, crime, and government mismanagement. This role is key in keeping City Hall accountable.

Budget Negotiations & Discretionary Funding – While the mayor proposes the budget, the Council negotiates and approves it. Council members also control discretionary funds, which can be allocated to local organizations, schools, and public services.

Legislative Power Over Local Issues – From setting speed limits to regulating small businesses, the Council has a say in everyday policies that impact New Yorkers’ lives in ways many don’t realize.

These powers make the City Council one of the most influential legislative bodies at the local level, and more people should recognize how much it can shape their daily lives.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experience in government or politics can be helpful, but it’s not the only—or even the most important—qualification for serving on the New York City Council. What matters most is strong leadership, a commitment to representing the people, and a deep understanding of the issues affecting the community.

In many cases, career politicians become too beholden to special interests and party bosses, losing sight of the everyday struggles of working people. That’s why a fresh perspective—whether from business, law enforcement, community activism, or another field—can be just as valuable as prior government experience.

That said, knowledge of how city government functions, how to navigate bureaucracy, and how to get things done is critical. The best public servants are those who can combine an outsider’s independence with an insider’s understanding of how to make real change.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

The most important qualities for a New York City Council member are character, integrity, work ethic, intellect, and communication skills.

Character and integrity ensure that an elected official stays true to their principles, serves the people honestly, and resists the pressures of special interests. Without these, no amount of experience or expertise matters.

A strong work ethic is essential because this job is not just about showing up for votes—it’s about fighting for constituents, solving problems, and holding government accountable every single day.

Intellect allows a council member to analyze complex issues, craft effective policies, and challenge flawed proposals, while the ability to communicate ensures they can connect with the public, explain decisions, and build coalitions to get things done.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

The New York City Council is unique and essential to local government because it serves as the legislative backbone of the city, shaping policies that directly impact the lives of millions. Unlike state or federal offices, it has immediate, tangible influence over everyday issues—public safety, housing, education, and sanitation.

One of its most important powers is budget control, determining how taxpayer dollars are spent to fund city services. The Council also provides oversight of city agencies, ensuring accountability and efficiency.

Additionally, Council members have a direct connection to their communities, advocating for local concerns, shaping zoning laws, and appointing members to community boards—critical for maintaining the character and future of neighborhoods like Staten Island.

Tell us your favorite joke.

A guy walks into NBC Studios with his dog and says, "This is a talking dog! Get me on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson—I guarantee you’ll be amazed."

The show's producer, skeptical, says, "Alright, prove it."

The man turns to his dog and asks, "What’s on top of a house?"
The dog barks, "Roof!"

The producer rolls his eyes. "Come on."

The man continues, "What’s sandpaper like?"
The dog barks, "Rough!"

Annoyed, the producer starts waving them off.

Desperate, the man asks, "Who’s the greatest baseball player ever?"
The dog barks, "Ruth!"

Johnny Carson’s producer throws them out onto the street.

Sitting on the curb, the dog looks up at his owner and says, "Should I have said DiMaggio?"

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I’m honored to have the support of an incredible group of leaders, organizations, and individuals who share my commitment to Staten Island and New York City.

Elected Officials & Leaders:

Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis
Minority Leader Joe Borelli (Former Minority Leader)
"America’s Mayor" Rudy Giuliani
State Senator Andrew Lanza
Mayoral Candidate Curtis Sliwa
Assemblyman Mike Reilly
Councilman David Carr
Assemblyman Mike Tannousis
Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo
Former Governor George Pataki
Former Congressman Dan Donovan
Former Councilman Vinny Ignizio

Public Figures & Influencers:
Patriot Artist Scott LoBaido
Former Trump Advisor Andrew Giuliani
Radio Host & SNL Alum Joe Piscopo

American Bu

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are essential to restoring trust in our institutions. Taxpayers deserve to know exactly how their money is being spent, and elected officials must be held to the highest ethical standards.

In the New York City Council, I would push for greater oversight of government contracts, discretionary spending, and nonprofit organizations that receive public funds. Every dollar should be accounted for, and wasteful spending should be eliminated.

I also support requiring full financial disclosures for elected officials, stricter lobbying regulations, and real consequences for corruption. Additionally, I believe in making city budgets and agency expenditures more accessible to the public—no more backroom deals or hidden expenses.

Government should serve the people, not special interests, and I will fight to ensure that Staten Islanders and all New Yorkers get honest, transparent leadership.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Candidate

New York City Council District 51

Personal

Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on March 21, 2025

Political offices
Preceded by Joe Borelli (R)	New York City Council District 51 2025-Present	Succeeded by -

Footnotes

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on March 21, 2025

[1]

	Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
	Frank Morano	81.9	3,317	0	Advanced (1)
Submit photo	Griffin Fossella	9.3	377	0	1
	John Buthorn	8.2	330	0	1
	Undeclared Write-insUndeclared write-in candidates may advance past the first round in some ranked-choice elections. If the official source reports write-in votes by candidate name, Ballotpedia displays them alongside the ballot-qualified candidates. However, if write-in votes are reported without a name, they will instead be included in the total write-in votes figure in Round 1. Please consult the official elections source for more details about unnamed write-in candidate vote totals past Round 1.	0.6	24	0

	Candidate	%	Total Votes	Transfer	Round eliminated
	Frank Morano	58.9	5,649	0	Won (1)
Submit photo	Clifford Hagen	21.0	2,012	0	1
Submit photo	Griffin Fossella	19.8	1,897	0	1
	Undeclared Write-insUndeclared write-in candidates may advance past the first round in some ranked-choice elections. If the official source reports write-in votes by candidate name, Ballotpedia displays them alongside the ballot-qualified candidates. However, if write-in votes are reported without a name, they will instead be included in the total write-in votes figure in Round 1. Please consult the official elections source for more details about unnamed write-in candidate vote totals past Round 1.	0.3	33	0

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Frank Morano (New York)

Contents

Biography

Elections

2025

Regular election

General election

General election for New York City Council District 51

Democratic primary election

Democratic Primary for New York City Council District 51

Republican primary election

Republican Primary for New York City Council District 51

Endorsements

Special election

General election

General election for New York City Council District 51

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

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Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

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