In the upcoming New York City Council election for Manhattan’s District 3 on November 3, challenger Haris Bhatti has drawn attention for an unusual campaign approach that includes a self-described identity as a “jealous Swiftie” who “prayed to be Taylor Swift’s husband.” Bhatti, an independent candidate, is challenging incumbent Councilman Carl Wilson, a Democrat who won the seat earlier this year in a special election.

Bhatti’s candidacy marked the only contest involving an incumbent in this year’s general City Council elections. His platform, outlined in the nonpartisan election mailer distributed by NYC Votes—a voter guide produced by the New York City Campaign Finance Board—has surprised many voters due to its unconventional tone and range of policy proposals.

In his official candidate biography included in the mailed voter guide, Bhatti referenced his admiration for Swift, the pop superstar married to Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce, a detail that quickly garnered public attention on social media. Some voters expressed disbelief, questioning the seriousness of such a figure standing for office.

When asked about this aspect of his campaign, Bhatti acknowledged that his initial motivation to run was partly to attract the attention of a celebrity he admires. He also emphasized a broader political agenda aimed at raising awareness on various issues. His platform highlights proposals such as banning smoking, vaping, and gambling, alongside pledges to address the student debt crisis and promote alternative viewpoints on events like 9/11, according to his campaign website.

Bhatti, a Cornell University alumnus who previously ran for Congress in 2016, initially attempted to enter the special election this past April but failed to secure the necessary 450 signatures. He subsequently met the petition requirements to appear on the general election ballot under an independent ticket.

Since launching his campaign, Bhatti has reportedly raised over $15,000 and manages a website featuring 26 distinct policy points. His campaign team includes a dedicated manager, signaling a structured effort despite his status as a long-shot contender.

Wilson, who has held the seat since the special election earlier this year, has not publicly commented on Bhatti’s unconventional campaign style. Voters expressed mixed reactions online to the electoral options, with some dismissing the challenger’s platform as implausible and others intrigued by the unexpected candidacy.

As the election approaches, the District 3 race remains the sole contested City Council election in 2026, making the choices presented in the mailed voter guides all the more significant for constituents on Manhattan’s West Side.