AG Letitia James’ reelection bid clears Democratic primary field
State Attorney General Letitia James’ reelection bid to remain the state’s top lawyer has cleared the once-crowded Democratic primary field, as several candidatesꦐ announced Monday they’re calling it quits.
James dropped out of the governor’s race last week, a surprising move after spending barely two⛎ months on the campaign ♔trial.
Two declared candidates for AG – state Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (D-Queens) and former superintendent of New York’s Department of Financial Services Maria Vullo – announced that they will susp꧙end their campaigns and instead back James for the job.
“In light of Attorney General James’ announcement last week that she will suspend her 𒊎campaign for NYS Governor, I will suspend my campaign to be the next New York State Attorney General,” Vanel said in a statement.
Their exits follow that of Fordham University law professor and 2014 failed gubernatorial candidate Zephyr Teachout, who on Suꦍnday said she too would e𒀰nd her campaign in light of James’ decision.
State Sen. Shelley Mayer (D-Westchester) and ex-federal prosecutor Daniel Goldman also ended their short-li♒ved candidacies afte൲r James’ reentry.
Sources said potential AG hopeful Deputy Majority Leader Stateꦚ Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Queens) – who had yet to even declare his candidacy – no longer intends to run.
🅘Others who had previously thought about making a run, such as Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez, are also expected to stayꦑ out of the contest, sources said.
