De Blasio takes step toward potential NY governor campaign

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) has filed paperwork with the state’s Board of Elections in which he requested approval for a fundraising committee that could be used for a potential campaign for governor, according to CBS New York. 

De Blasio, who is blocked from seeking another term as the city’s mayor, has not disclosed his plans, CBS New York noted, adding that he has been out and about in the public eye as of late. 

De Blasio has reportedly been telling people privately that he has plans to run for governor in 2022. 

According to reports, he has spoken to former aides about their interest in joining a potential campaign for governor and a longtime pollster has put out a survey to get a feel for the public’s opinion on the mayor outside of New York City.

New York Attorney General Letitia James (D.) officially launched her gubernatorial bid last week, which set up a primary battle against incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul (D).

Hochul became New York’s first female governor when former Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) stepped down from office following sexual misconduct allegations.

James would be the first Black woman to lead the state if she is elected.

Hochul and James are both longtime Democrats and are identified as more moderate within the party, unlike de Blasio, who is seen as more progressive. 

A poll by Marist in October showed Hochul held a double-digit lead over James and candidate Jumaane Williams, the New York City public advocate who is also seen as to the left of Hochul and James. De Blasio was not included in that survey.