Governor Hochul Endorses A Candidate In NY-12's Race

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has endorsed Upper West Side Assemblymember Micah Lasher in the hotly contested race to represent NY-12 in Congress, her team said Monday.

Lasher, a former policy director to Hochul, is one of several Democrats vying for the seat in the June 23 primary. His opponents include fellow Assemblymember Alex Bores of the Upper East Side, along with Jack Schlossberg, George Conway, Laura Dunn, Alan Pardee and Nina Schwalbe.

"As the Trump administration continues to target New York and our nation’s democracy, Micah Lasher is exactly who we need in Washington fighting back on behalf of working families," Hochul said, mentioning Lasher's work on major initiatives including an affordable housing plan, expanded mental health funding, and efforts to move toward universal childcare.

The crowded race follows Rep. Jerry Nadler’s announcement that he will step down after more than 30 years in office, prompting a wave of Democratic candidates to enter the contest.

"Her endorsement adds to the momentum of our campaign, and sends a strong message to the voters of the 12th District that we will be united in standing up to MAGA Republicanism — and for a Democratic Party that is focused on delivering real solutions to the affordability challenges facing New Yorkers and all Americans," Lasher said.

The 12th Congressional District spans much of Manhattan, including the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown, Hell’s Kitchen, Central Park, Union Square, Chelsea and Stuyvesant Town.

According to a recent poll, Bores leads the race, with Lasher and Schlossberg close behind.

Lasher, who lives on the Upper West Side, represents parts of the neighborhood, as well as Central Park and Morningside Heights, in the State Assembly’s 69th District.

Lasher previously served as director of state legislative affairs under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg and worked as an aide to Nadler, both of whom endorsed him.

Other notable endorsements in the race include former Upper East Side Rep. Carolyn Maloney backing Bores and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi supporting Schlossberg.

The primary election is set for June 23, with the general election scheduled for Nov. 3.

For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.

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