And My Endorsement for NYC Mayor Is…

When I received a phone call on Sunday afternoon from Sally Goldenberg at The NY Post, I was happy to answer her questions about Bill Thompson and his relationship with the Jewish community. Bill is an old friend and I have nothing but good things to say about him. But I also have nothing but good things to say about Public Advocate Bill DeBlasio, NYC Comptroller John Liu, and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer (listed alphabetically—not by position held, height, age or any other factor). In fact, I did say good things about all three of these friends to Sally in that same conversation. Those things just didn’t make it to The NY Post article.

The fact is I have not endorsed anyone for NYC Mayor. I’m far from discussing an election that will not take place until next year.

I was quoted as saying Bill Thompson is a favorite in the Jewish community. That’s true. But that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s the favorite.

I supported Bill when he ran against—and narrowly lost to—Mayor Bloomberg. I believed then that Bill was better for our community and our city. I still believe that. But I think the same thing about many of the candidates who are looking at a mayoral run.

As for my relationship with the other prospective candidates:

• Just last month I joined Bill de Blasio at his press conference demanding that Nissan—the winner of a $1 billion contract to manufacture NYC’s “Taxi of Tomorrow”—stop conducting business in Iran.


• John Liu and I have stood together on many issues impacting the Jewish community and we continue to do so. 


• Just two weeks ago, Scott Stringer supported my efforts (successfully) to have the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art give full disclosure to Gertrude Stein’s past in presenting her art collection “The Steins Collect.” 

 So I repeat, I haven’t endorsed anyone. And to the best of my knowledge neither has the Jewish community.