By Howard Koplowitz
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) endorsed Democratic state Assembly candidate Michael Simanowitz in the special election to replace former Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn, who retired in April after 28 years in Albany.
Simanowitz, Mayersohn’s former chief of staff, is facing off against Republican Marco DeSena in the Sept. 13 special election.
“I am supporting Democrat Michael Simanowitz for Assembly because he will be a powerful voice for seniors, students and all the taxpayers of Queens,” Schumer said in a statement. “We need fighters in Albany and Michael will never stop fighting for our families. On Sept. 13, I hope you will join me in supporting Democrat Michael Simanowitz for state Assembly.”
The assembly district includes Flushing, College Point, Pomonok, Fresh Meadows, Electchester, Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill. Simanowitz was Mayersohn’s chief of staff for more than 15 years and is a Democratic district leader.
He is also a member of the 107th Precinct’s auxiliary unit and has been serving as the unit’s commanding officer for the last nine years.
“I am humbled to have the endorsement of Sen. Charles Schumer, a model elected official and a friend,” Simanowitz said. “I thank him for his kind words and look forward to working with him to improve the lives of all the people who live and work in Queens.”
The special election is one of three contests being held in Queens Sept. 13.
There are also races to replace former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner and former Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer, who retired from the Assembly after accepting the vacant Queens county clerk position.
Reach reporter Howard Koplowitz by e-mail at hkoplowitz@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4573.
