Fort Totten Vet Announces State Senate Run

A U.S. Army veteran formerly stationed at Fort Totten has announced his run in the Democratic primary for the 16th Senate District.

John Messer, a former National Gaurd legal advisor and Captain, will be running for the newly drawn 16th Senate District. The new district encompasses Bayside, Forest Hills, Oakland Gardens, Flushing, Whitestone, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Fresh Meadows and parts of Woodside and other Central Queens communities.

"This new multicultural district is also a reflection of my family. As you know, my wife is Chinese," Messer wrote in his campaign announcement. "We want our children, and the other families in this district, to have all of the same opportunities which we have been given," he added.

Messer, an attorney and businessman, also announced that he would be using $500,000 of his personal wealth to fund the campaign, in addition to donations.

Previous to Messer's announcement, The Queens Tribune reported that Sen. Toby Stavisky, D-Flushing, would likely run in the primary against Messer. The two were previously adversaries during the 2010 primary.

Stavisky's office did not have an official statement to issue yet. When they do, we'll keep you updated.

Here is the full text of Messer's announcement:

After reviewing the new district lines which came out today, I am very happy to announce that I have decided to run for State Senate in District 16 as it appears that this new district is a great fit for me. Not only do I live in the district, but my office is in the district as well.

As many are already aware, I am an attorney and small business owner who is committed to serving our community. I understand that these are tough times for working families and seniors and that they need a Senator and a senate office that represents them well. I am devoted to helping small businesses, which includes protecting them from unnecessary regulation and fines which has punished already cash-strapped employers. We need to create quality jobs, to protect critical programs, and control taxes and other costs to protect those on fixed incomes. Most of all, I am committed to being an accountable representative that lives and works in the district that I would be so privileged to represent.

I believe very strongly that it's time for a change and for new leadership in the 16th Senate District. After speaking with my wife, family and supporters, I have made a decision to run. My family and this community are extremely important to me and it is with their support that I have made this decision. This new multicultural district is also a reflection of my family. As you know, my wife is Chinese. We want our children, and the other families in this district, to have all of the same opportunities which we have been given.

It is time for change in the 16th Senate District and as a sign of my commitment, I will personally pledge $500,000 dollars towards my campaign - in addition to the funds which are being committed by my family and friends.

I will work within every community of this multicultural district, and I promise my office will reflect this districts diverse community and languages. I am committed to making sure that every resident has a voice and that they will have a Senator which represents their diverse needs.