Austin Shafran

Throughout his career in politics, Austin Shafran has served as a communications strategist, spokesperson, speechwriter, and legislative director for many prominent city, state and national political campaigns and governmental offices. Prior to joining Metropolitan Public Strategies as Vice President for Strategic Affairs, Austin served as Legislative Director for the Working Families Party, where he managed the operation of their city, state and federal issue-based campaigns and legislative advocacy, including efforts to raise the NYS minimum wage and enact campaign finance reform. In 2011, Austin was appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo to help manage the centerpiece of the state’s job growth and business development program as Vice President of Public Affairs for Empire State Development Corp. Austin also served as a communications strategist and speechwriter for the Cuomo administration. Before joining the Cuomo administration, Austin served as Press Secretary for the NYS Senate Democratic Conference, where he was the chief media strategist and spokesperson for successful legislative campaigns to pass historic Marriage Equality legislation, fair share tax reform, expanded affordable housing protections, and criminal and social justice reforms. Austin also served as Communications Director for the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee, leading political campaigns that led to the first Democratic Majority in the State Senate in over 40 years. Austin began his career in public service working as a Special Assistant to Congressman Gary Ackerman, and Director of Communications for NYC Council Finance Chair David Weprin. He was also named a “Rising Star” by the Queens Courier and one of the “Top 40 Under 40” by City & State NY.