Heshy Tischler is running for City Council in Brooklyn’s 44th District, a seat soon to be vacated by Kalman Yeger as he moves on to the New York State Assembly. But don’t expect Tischler to fit the typical mold of a politician. Known for his unapologetic, fearless approach to local issues and a social media presence that often disrupts the political status quo, Tischler is on a mission: to serve the people, uplift the community, and fight for real, lasting change.
“I’m not here to stir the pot just for the sake of it,” Tischler says. “I’m here because I care. And if being bold and direct is what it takes to get things done, then that’s what I’ll do.”
Tischler’s approach has earned him the nickname Uncle Heshy – a term of endearment that reflects his deep commitment to those he serves, especially the most vulnerable. Whether it’s advocating for children unfairly expelled from yeshiva or standing up for those caught in the legal system who deserve a second chance, Tischler is unwavering in his belief that every person, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to succeed.
“I’ve seen too many kids kicked out of schools through no fault of their own – just because their families are struggling financially,” he says. “Every child deserves a chance to grow, learn, and thrive. That’s why I fight for them.”
Tischler’s advocacy extends far beyond education; he has a deeply personal connection to the disabled community, as his sister – who has Down syndrome – lives independently in her own apartment within his Boro Park house. Tischler knows firsthand the unique challenges the disabled and their families face, and he is passionate about ensuring that they receive the support and services they need. “I understand the struggles of families with disabilities. It’s personal for me, and I will fight to make sure that these families aren’t left behind,” he says.
Heshy Tischler’s commitment to pidyon shvuyim (redeeming captives) is a guiding force in his life and was exemplified when he personally drove a former city councilman to the prison where he was to surrender. Along the way, Tischler offered support and chizuk, standing by him through a difficult chapter of his life. “Maybe someone made a big mistake, maybe they deserve consequences. But I believe in redemption, and I believe in second chances.” It’s this belief that drives Tischler to work tirelessly for those who need a second opportunity to rebuild their lives and find a path forward.
“There is a lot of pain in the world – some of it comes from the choices we make, and some is simply part of life’s challenges,” he says. “I’ve witnessed both firsthand, and I’m committed to doing whatever I can to ease that suffering. As a foster parent over the years to twenty-one children, each with their own struggles, I’ve learned that offering compassion, support, and a helping hand can make all the difference. It’s about showing up when people need it most and being there for them, no matter what they’re facing.”
Tischler’s commitment to service is demonstrated through action, not just words. Every morning, he visits Maimonides Hospital, making bikur cholim rounds to provide comfort and encouragement to patients and their families. Once a week, he volunteers to drive people to Manhattan hospitals, showing his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his community. For Tischler, serving others is a way of life.
This same dedication is what drives Tischler in his bid for City Council – it is about improving the lives of the people he serves. “We live in a TikTok world,” he explains. “If I’m quiet and laid-back, no one listens. No one hears me. The media loves grabbing soundbites, and if I have to be loud to make sure my community is heard, then I will be.”
His focus is on the issues that matter most to his community: improving public safety, expanding educational opportunities and after-school programs, and ensuring that local businesses and families receive the support they need to thrive. “Leadership isn’t just about making laws,” Tischler says, “it’s about making sure people’s lives are better. And that’s what I want to do for the 44th District – fight for policies that make a real difference.”
Tischler’s passion for his community is deeply rooted in his personal experience and family legacy. Growing up, his father served as the gabbai of the Tasher Rebbe, instilling in him a strong sense of service and responsibility. Today, as a father, husband, and the head of a large extended family, Tischler continues to carry that commitment forward, always putting family and community first.
Tischler says he understands the financial pressures that many families in the district face. “Family is everything to me,” he says, as he speaks with pride of his three sons—two of whom are already successful in business, while his youngest son, recently married, is studying in kollel in Lakewood after returning from the Mir Yeshiva in Israel and studying at BMG. “I understand the challenges of raising kids, managing a household, and providing for loved ones. That’s why I’m running, to make sure that the needs of families in this district are heard and addressed.”
For Heshy Tischler, this campaign isn’t just about winning a seat; it’s about winning for his community, Tischler is ready to bring his bold leadership and tireless work ethic to City Hall, “I’m not in this for the titles or the politics,” he says, “I’m here to serve and I won’t stop until the people of the 44th District are heard, supported, and given the opportunities they deserve.”
