The Nation’s Public Advocate . . . You’re Welcome!

The mayoralty that is kind of like the most awesome (paid!) internship, like, ever:

After a summer of local headaches, from squabbles over taxicabs to toplessness in Times Square, Mayor Bill de Blasio is returning to a realm that he relishes: the national political stage.

[. . .]

City Hall officials say that with a presidential election looming, Mr. de Blasio cares deeply about focusing the political dialogue on policies that he believes can help combat inequality, like eliminating tax loopholes for the income of some investment managers.

While the mayor has received criticism for his time spent outside New York, much of his national travel, aides say, is ultimately rooted in aiding the city. On trips to Washington, for instance, Mr. de Blasio often meets with federal law enforcement officials, visits the White House, and has rallied to increase infrastructure funding for New York.

“While cities can lead, we certainly can’t make change alone,” Amy Spitalnick, a spokeswoman for the mayor, said.