Bloomberg Makes Surprising Endorsement
Billionaire former mayor signals support — and possibly millions in campaign spending — as crowded race heats up
Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has officially endorsed New York State Assemblyman Micah Lasher in the Democratic primary race to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler in New York’s 12th Congressional District.
The endorsement, announced Thursday on the social platform X, adds a powerful political and financial ally to Lasher’s campaign as multiple high-profile candidates compete for the open seat.
Bloomberg praised Lasher’s leadership experience and record in government, arguing that New York needs representatives capable of navigating complex national and international challenges.
“We face extraordinary challenges both at home and abroad,” Bloomberg wrote. “At a moment like this, New Yorkers need representatives with bold ideas, proven experience, and the courage to take on difficult issues.”
“That’s why I will be voting for Micah Lasher for Congress this year,” he added.
Micah Lasher’s Background in New York Politics
Lasher currently represents parts of Manhattan Valley, Morningside Heights, the Upper West Side, and West Harlem in the New York State Assembly, where he has served since January 2025.
Before entering the Assembly, Lasher built a long résumé in Democratic politics.
Earlier in his career, he worked as a special assistant to Rep. Jerry Nadler, gaining firsthand experience in federal policymaking and congressional operations.
Lasher later joined the administration of then-Mayor Michael Bloomberg, serving as director of state legislative affairs from 2010 to 2012. In that role, he helped manage relations between New York City and lawmakers in Albany.
A profile published during that time described Lasher as someone capable of balancing several roles at once — acting as a policy expert, political negotiator, and mediator when difficult legislative fights emerged.
Bloomberg Praises Lasher’s Work in City Hall
In his endorsement statement, Bloomberg highlighted Lasher’s contributions during his time working in City Hall.
According to Bloomberg, Lasher helped advocate for policies aimed at securing additional funding for New York City while also supporting various public safety initiatives.
“He was a key part of our team in City Hall,” Bloomberg wrote, noting that Lasher helped advance policy priorities and push for New York City’s fair share of state resources.
“I counted on Micah when I was mayor, and he delivered for our city,” Bloomberg said.
Bloomberg also encouraged voters to support Lasher in the June 23 Democratic primary election.
Bloomberg Could Spend Millions in the Race
Bloomberg’s endorsement may also come with significant financial backing.
According to reports, the billionaire media executive — whose wealth is estimated by Forbes at more than $100 billion — is prepared to spend up to $5 million supporting Lasher’s campaign.
Bloomberg has historically played a major role in funding political campaigns and ballot initiatives across the country.
Campaign finance filings show that Lasher’s campaign had more than $1.1 million in cash on hand at the end of last year.
If Bloomberg ultimately invests heavily in the race, it could dramatically shift the dynamics of the Democratic primary.
A Crowded Democratic Primary Field
The race to replace Nadler has attracted several well-known candidates, turning the Democratic primary into one of the most competitive political contests in New York this year.
Candidates currently running include:
- Alex Bores, another New York State Assembly member
- Jack Schlossberg, grandson of former President John F. Kennedy
- George Conway, a conservative attorney who later became a critic of President Donald Trump
- Cameron Kasky, a gun-control activist who survived the 2018 Parkland school shooting
Because the district is considered solidly Democratic, the winner of the primary is widely expected to secure the congressional seat in the general election.
Democratic Leaders Split on Endorsements
Several prominent Democratic figures have already taken sides in the race.
Rep. Jerry Nadler, who has represented the district for more than three decades and previously chaired the House Judiciary Committee, has endorsed Lasher as his successor.
However, other Democratic leaders are backing different candidates.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has endorsed Jack Schlossberg, while former New York Rep. Carolyn Maloney is supporting Alex Bores.
The split endorsements reflect divisions among Democratic leaders about who should carry the party’s banner in the district moving forward.
Early Poll Shows Large Number of Undecided Voters
Early polling suggests the race remains highly competitive.
A survey conducted by GQP Research and commissioned by George Conway’s campaign found the following support levels among Democratic voters:
- Jack Schlossberg — 25%
- George Conway — 16%
- Alex Bores — 11%
- Micah Lasher — 11%
Notably, about one-third of voters said they were still undecided, indicating the race could shift considerably before the June primary.
With major endorsements, potential millions in outside spending, and a crowded field of candidates, the Democratic primary for New York’s 12th Congressional District is likely to remain one of the most closely watched congressional races of the year.
