In news from the campaign trail, NY1 will host two live debates next month in the race for Public Advocate.

In conjunction with the city's Campaign Finance Board, Politico New York, and a wide array of co-sponsors, NY1 will bring together a crowded field of candidates on February 6 at the studios of CUNY television.

A second debate with leading contenders in the race will be held two weeks later on February 20 at the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

Second-in-line to the mayor, the previous Public Advocate, Letitia James, became state attorney general this month, creating the vacancy.

Twenty-three candidates have submitted petitions in an effort to get on the ballot for the election, which will be held February 26.