Diana Ayala

Diana Ayala (born September 24, 1973) is an American politician, serving as a member and the deputy speaker of the New York City Council. Ayala represents the 8th district, succeeding former Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito in 2017. The district includes Concourse, East Harlem, Highbridge, Longwood, Mott Haven, Port Morris, and Randall's Island. She is a member of the Democratic Party.

Early life and education
Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, she and her family moved to New York City when she was a child. They lived in public housing after living in shelters. She received an associate degree in Human Services from Bronx Community College.

Career
Ayala worked as a Senior Center Director in East Harlem for seven years. She then served as Constituent Services Director and Deputy Chief of Staff for her predecessor, Melissa Mark-Viverito.

New York City Council
Ayala ran against three other candidates in the Democratic primary for the open 8th city council district. Ayala had the support of Melissa Mark-Viverito, the term-limited incumbent and Speaker. Ayala's main primary opponent was Robert J. Rodriguez, an assemblyman. Ayala won the primary narrowly with 43.5% of the vote (4,012 votes) to Rodriguez's 42.23% (3,895 votes). In the general election, Ayala won 91.07% of the vote (13,617 votes), while her Republican opponent, Daby Benjaminé Carreras, won 5.26% (787 votes) and her Conservative opponent, Linda Ortiz, won 3.30% of the vote (494 votes).

Personal life
Ayala and her long-time partner live in East Harlem. She has four children and three grandchildren.