UPDATE: Queens voters will head to the polls on February 3 to fill the vacant state Assembly seat left by newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed this urgent development just hours after Mamdani stepped into his new role, signaling a significant political shift in Assembly District 36, which covers key areas like Astoria and Long Island City.
Mamdani’s departure from the Assembly, after a stunning victory over longtime incumbent Aravella Simotas in 2020, has opened the door for fresh candidates in a district that has become a bastion for democratic socialism, alongside prominent figures like U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and City Council Member Tiffany Cabán.
The mayor has already thrown his support behind Diana Moreno, a close friend and fellow advocate for progressive policies, as she aims to secure the Assembly seat. “I am honored to receive the endorsement of a friend, fellow democratic socialist, and fierce advocate for Queens,” Moreno stated following her endorsement on December 20. “Together, we’ll defend working families and deliver an affordable New York City.”
Moreno is not the only candidate in the race. Progressive activists Mary Jobaida and Rana Abdelhamid have also registered to run, as well as Shivani Dhir, an assistant dean at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering. This diverse field reflects the growing engagement and activism among voters in Queens.
February 3 will be a pivotal day for New York City voters, as several other significant elections are also scheduled. A special election will concurrently take place for the state Senate seat in Manhattan’s District 47, previously held by Brad Hoylman-Sigal, now the borough president. City Council Member Erik Bottcher has pivoted from a congressional bid to contest this open Senate seat.
As the political scene heats up, Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal is seen as a potential frontrunner for the Senate seat, although she has yet to announce her candidacy. Additionally, Governor Hochul has designated the same date to fill the 74th Assembly District seat, vacated by Harvey Epstein, who recently won a City Council position.
In New York state special elections, party officials select nominees through internal processes rather than public primaries. Former City Council Member Keith Powers has emerged as a leading candidate for the 74th Assembly District after receiving the Democratic county committee’s nomination, while contenders like Sarah Batchu and Kevin O’Keefe are also in the mix.
With the political landscape shifting rapidly, February 3 is poised to be a defining moment for Queens and New York City. Voters are urged to stay informed and prepare for a dynamic election that could reshape local governance. Keep an eye on this developing story as the election date approaches.
