(The Center Square) — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is backing her former policy advisor in a crowded Democratic primary to replace outgoing Rep Jerry Nadler in the 12th Congressional District race.
Hochul announced Monday that she is endorsing New York State Assembly member Micah Lasher to succeed Nadler in the congressional district, which includes Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Upper East Side, and Midtown.
“Micah knows how to use the legislative process to make meaningful change — not just on one issue, but on the many fronts Democrats must be fighting right now,” Hochul, a Democrat, said in a statement. “He is exactly the kind of thoughtful, effective leader we need fighting for us in Congress. That’s why l am so proud to endorse him.”
Lasher welcomed the support from Hochul, saying he is “excited to hit the campaign trail with her” ahead of the June 23 Democratic primary.
“From expanding access to childcare, to protecting abortion rights, to standing up against Donald Trump’s attacks on New York, I am so proud to have worked for and with Kathy Hochul to deliver for New Yorkers,” Lasher posted on social media. “I have seen Governor Hochul’s leadership up close, and know, first-hand, how much she cares and how hard she works.”
Nadler, 78, is serving out his 17th term in Congress. He announced in September that he won’t seek reelection next year, suggesting that a younger Democratic lawmaker in his seat “can maybe do better, can maybe help us more.”
Lasher, 43, is among a crowded field of nine Democratic contenders running for the deep blue congressional district.
Democrat Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, jumped into the race in November and polls have shown him to be among the leading candidates. Other hopefuls include political pundit and Trump critic George Conway and East Side Assemblyman Alex Bores.
New York’s 12th district is one of several competitive races on the state’s ballot in next year’s midterm elections. New York City Comptroller Brad Lander is running for New York’s 10th Congressional District, setting up a Democratic primary clash with incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman, who is running for reelection with Hochul’s endorsement.
Meanwhile, Rep. Nydia Velázquez decision not to seek reelection next year has sparked a scramble to fill the 7th Congressional District, including Queens Assemblymember and socialist Claire Valdez, and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
