Meet Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg: A Profile of Leadership and Justice
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is gearing up for the Democratic primary on June 24, where he will compete against Patrick Timmins to secure his position as the borough's top prosecutor. Bragg, who made history as the first black man elected to the role in 2021, will face Republican candidate Maud Maron in the general election if he wins the primary.
Born on October 21, 1973, in Harlem, New York, Bragg holds a bachelor's degree in government from Harvard University and a law degree from Harvard Law School. He has a background working as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York and as the New York state chief deputy attorney general. Bragg is also a Sunday school teacher at Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem and a visiting professor at New York Law School.
Bragg is married to Jamila, whom he met at Harvard, and they have two children together. His term as Manhattan DA is set to end in January 2026, pending the outcome of the upcoming Democratic primary. During his tenure, Bragg has implemented initiatives like the Post-Conviction Justice Unit and the Special Victims Division to address issues related to criminal justice and public safety.
Notably, Bragg prosecuted former President Donald Trump on charges related to falsifying business records. While this move received criticism, Bragg remains committed to ensuring fairness and public safety in the justice system. His personal experiences with law enforcement during his youth have shaped his dedication to upholding civil rights and promoting trust within the community.
In his pursuit of a more equitable justice system, Bragg aims to reduce the impact of misdemeanor crimes, address racial disparities, and tackle urgent issues like gun violence. As he navigates the upcoming primary and potential reelection, Bragg's focus remains on fostering a safer and more just environment for all residents of Manhattan.