Ackerman Throws Weight Behind Weprin

U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman, D-Bayside, has thrown his support behind state Assemblyman David Weprin’s bid for Anthony Weiner’s seat.

The northeast Queens congressman said he believed Weprin, D-Little Neck, would be an “aggressive backer” of the ties between the United States and Israel.

“His strong, life-long record of support for Israel and the Jewish community is without blemish and he deserves to be recognized for it,” Ackerman said. “Both Democrats and Republicans are rightfully proud of their strong support for our special relationship with Israel and David Weprin, when he comes to Congress, will be yet another powerful advocate for those unbreakable and special bonds.”

Earlier this month, Weprin was picked by the Queens County Democratic Party to run for the seat following the resignation of Anthony Weiner, who admitted last month to having participated in a series of online relationships with women.

The borough’s Republican and Conservative parties have tapped Bob Turner, who ran last fall against Weiner, as their candidate for the seat.

A special election will be held in the Ninth District on Sept. 13.

The district includes Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, Fresh Meadows, Middle Village, Howard Beach, Glendale, Rego Park, Rockaway Beach, Woodhaven, Ridgewood, Ozone Park and Maspeth as well as a sliver of Brooklyn.