Lancman Will Run for City Council

Assemblyman Rory Lancman, who failled in his attempt to grab the Democratic nomination to Congress in the fall, will mount a campaign to replace James Gennaro in City Council District 24.

Lancman made the announcement on Wednesday, saying the next few years will be crucial for Queens and the rest of the city.

“2013 will be a time of extraordinary turnover in city government, ushering in a new Mayor, Comptroller, Public Advocate and at least half the City Council,” Lancman said. "We need experienced leaders to help guide New York through some very difficult times, and I am looking forward to stepping up to the plate for my community and our city." 

Gennaro, whose district includes a small portion of northern Forest Hills, will be term-limited out of office at the end of the year.

Lancman, who currently lives in Hillcrest and serves in the state Assembly, ran into some bad luck during his Congressional campaign. 

Before redistricting, Lancman planned to run against Republican Bob Turner, whose seat was drawn out of existence. When the dust settled, Lancman found himself running against two other Democrats — Grace Meng and Elizabeth Crowley — for the right to run under their banner. 

Based on his previous campaigns — and statements in his campaign kick-off — Lancman will likely look to paint himself as a crusader for the middle class. 

So far he is the only candidate declared in the district. 

The rest of Forest Hills is under the purview of City Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz in District 29, who will be eligible to run again in 2013.