To demonstrate unity among power-holders in New York City , Mr. Bloomberg was joined at his news conference by Christine C. Quinn , the new speaker of the City Council ; Randi Weingarten , the president of the city teachers ' union ; Kathryn S. Wylde , the president of the New York City Partnership , a major business group ; and Geri D. Palast , the new executive director of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity , the coalition of parent and community groups that sued the state seeking more money for the city schools .