Yesterday, Public Advocate candidate Andrew Rasiej released a new report ("Can You Gouge Me Now?") showing that New Yorkers are being over-charged for broadband Internet access in their homes and businesses. Instead of paying $15-$20/month, New Yorkers are paying what amounts to a "hidden Information Tax," according to Rasiej, who has been vocal about bringing free Wi-Fi Internet access to the city.

Media Citizen has details on the rally outside Verizon headquarters in Manhattan, where Free Press campaign director Timothy Karr voiced his disapproval about the high rates charged by Verizon and other broadband providers and talked up efforts by Andrew Rasiej to make community Internet access a reality. According to Karr, Verizon's attempts to monopolize the broadband Internet power through "political influence-peddling" has resulted in "fewer choices, higher costs and slower speeds" for New Yorkers.

For those of you following the Rasiej campaign, the first wave of TV ads are now running.