Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) has endorsed Democrat Micah Lasher in the crowded primary to replace Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY), boosting a longtime ally in one of the party’s most competitive races.
Lasher, a former Hochul policy director and longtime fixture in New York Democratic politics, is seeking the seat in the state’s 12th Congressional District, a deep-blue Manhattan district known for its wealth, donor base, and media influence.
“Micah knows how to use the legislative process to make meaningful change — not just on one issue, but on the many fronts Democrats must be fighting right now,” Hochul said in a statement posted on Lasher’s social media. “He is exactly the kind of thoughtful, effective leader we need fighting for us in Congress.”
Hochul also framed the race in national terms, casting Lasher as a defender of New York against attacks from the Trump administration.
“As the Trump administration continues to target New York and our nation’s democracy, Micah Lasher is exactly who we need in Washington fighting back on behalf of working families,” she told Politico.
Lasher brings deep institutional experience, having served as Hochul’s top policy director, chief of staff in the New York attorney general’s office, director of state legislative affairs under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and as an aide to Nadler, who served as a longtime mentor.
Nadler has also endorsed Lasher, praising both his experience and temperament.
“Micah Lasher will bring a sense of urgency, creativity, and fearlessness to Congress,” Nadler said. “His sharp mind and big heart will serve the people of this district incredibly well. Micah is not just ready for the fight ahead of him in Washington — he’s ready to lead it.”
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Lasher faces a crowded and diverse field of seven candidates, including Jack Schlossberg, a former Republican turned outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, as well as a vaccine scientist and former business leaders.