Pirate’s Booty Founder Rejects Election Loss, Asserts Leadership Over Self-Proclaimed Village

Robert Ehrlich, defeated in Sea Cliff's official mayoral election, continues to claim authority under a disputed interpretation of New York law.

Robert Ehrlich, founder of Pirate’s Booty snacks, declared himself mayor of Sea Cliff, New York, despite losing decisively to incumbent Mayor Elena Villafane in the March 18 election.
Ehrlich invoked the Citizen Empowerment Act to justify his claim, asserting he created a new village entity under his leadership, a move dismissed as legally invalid by officials.
His actions included a simulated takeover of Village Hall on March 10, during which he attempted to fire employees and announced himself as mayor.
Ehrlich collected nearly 800 votes on homemade ballots during the election, which prompted police visits over concerns of voter interference.
Sea Cliff residents have shown increased civic engagement, with many citing the controversy as their motivation to vote in the election.