Erik Bottcher Withdraws from House Race, Pursues State Senate Run

New York City Council Member Erik Bottcher has officially withdrawn from the 12th Congressional District race to pursue a run for the state Senate. He communicated his decision on Monday, emphasizing the importance of state leadership in addressing various pressing issues.

Erik Bottcher’s Transition to State Senate Candidate

Bottcher stated, “This decision is rooted in where I believe I can do the most good immediately.” His focus will be on critical areas such as housing affordability, mental health, environmental protection, and defending democracy against perceived threats from MAGA extremists.

Background and Previous Campaign

Bottcher initially entered the race for the House seat in October after incumbent Rep. Jerrold Nadler announced he would not seek reelection. Within just 24 hours of launching his fundraising committee, he raised nearly $700,000.

Despite this substantial backing, Bottcher faced stiff competition. The Democratic field included notable figures such as:

• Assembly Members Micah Lasher and Alex Bores
• Jack Schlossberg, a member of the Kennedy family
• Cameron Kasky, a Gen Z anti-gun violence activist

Lasher has emerged as a leading candidate and has garnered significant endorsements from local political figures.

Impact of Bottcher’s Withdrawal

By stepping aside, Bottcher removes a key candidate from the west side of Manhattan’s race, potentially benefiting Lasher, who is viewed as the heir to Nadler’s position.

Now, Bottcher is turning his attention to the state Senate seat held by Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who plans to become the Manhattan borough president. Several local elected officials, including Assembly Members Linda Rosenthal and Tony Simone, are also eyeing this seat.

Looking Ahead

Following Bottcher’s decision, Rosenthal appears to be focusing on remaining in the Assembly rather than pursuing the Senate seat. Hoylman-Sigal’s seat will be contested in a special election slated for early 2026. Bottcher’s entry into this race positions him favorably for the Democratic nomination, which would enhance his chances of winning.

If successful, Bottcher’s victory would trigger another special election for his current City Council seat in the spring. Meanwhile, the race for Nadler’s congressional seat remains competitive, with Trump critic George Conway announcing his candidacy on the same day Bottcher withdrew.

This story continues to develop as the political landscape in New York reshapes itself.