A member of Skinheads Against Racism and a vegetarian, I give you Justin Brannan.
Few politicians can claim they’ve survived the mosh pit and City Hall with equal grace, but Justin Brannan does it effortlessly. A lifelong Brooklynite, Brannan cut his teeth in the city’s gritty punk rock scene before trading his guitar for a council chamber microphone. For him, the energy of punk wasn’t just music; it was a way of life: loud, unapologetic and unafraid to challenge authority. Those same qualities now define his approach to politics, where he tackles local issues with the same passion he once brought to the stage.
Justin tested on his knowledge of punk music
Back in the day, Brannan’s bands tore through clubs across New York City, living the DIY ethos that punk demanded. Late nights, scraped knuckles, and sold-out basement shows taught him resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of community, lessons he carries into public service. “Being on stage taught me to read a crowd, connect with people and fight for what you believe in,” he has said. Those skills translate surprisingly well to city politics, where listening, persuasion, and stamina are everything.
Brannan’s entry into politics wasn’t a sudden pivot but a natural evolution. He saw firsthand the struggles of neighborhoods like Bay Ridge, from underfunded schools to rising rents and knew he could make a difference. Elected to the New York City Council, he has championed initiatives on public safety, affordable housing, and quality-of-life issues, always grounding his policies in the lived experience of everyday New Yorkers. His punk past, far from a gimmick, signals authenticity in a city often cynical about politicians.
But Brannan hasn’t left his creative side behind. He hosts community events, engages with youth programs and even incorporates music and culture into his civic work. Whether it’s advocating for local businesses or organising block parties, he approaches his borough with the same energy and improvisation that once fueled his band’s setlists. His ability to mix charisma, creativity, and hard-nosed policy has made him a recognisable and relatable figure in Brooklyn politics.
Justin Brannan is a rare breed: a punk rock musician turned councilman who proves that politics doesn’t have to be dull or disconnected. His journey, from crowded clubs to public office, celebrates the messy, vibrant, and authentic side of New York City. For Brannan, Brooklyn isn’t just a place to live; it’s a stage, a community, and a cause worth fighting for, loud guitars or no.
