Gov sets special election for vacant Assembly seat as Rosenthal endorses candidate
Former Assemblymember Daniel Rosenthal endorsed 25-year-old law school graduate Sam Berger in the open race for Rosenthal’s former Assembly seat. Governor Kathy Hochul called for a special election to fill the vacant seat on Monday, setting the election for Sept. 12.
Queens Eagle | By Ryan Schwach
Former Assemblymember Daniel Rosenthal endorsed 25-year-old law school graduate Sam Berger in the open race for Rosenthal’s former assembly seat. Governor Kathy Hochul called for a special election to fill the vacant seat on Monday, setting the election for Sept. 12.
In less than two months, Eastern Queens voters will head to the polls to cast their votes in the special election for Assembly District 27, the seat recently vacated by Daniel Rosenthal, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Monday.
As per her legal obligation, Hochul called for a special election to fill the vacant seat on Monday, setting election day for Sept. 12. The election day officially launches the race to fill Rosenthal’s seat as he moves on to a governmental relations job with the UJA-Federation, a Jewish non-profit.
"With Daniel Rosenthal’s departure from the Assembly, a special election to ensure representation for the 27th District will be held in September," Hochul said. "I’m grateful for Daniel’s service to New York State as he embarks on a new journey, and I look forward to working with the next representative to deliver for New York."
The proclamation was signed by Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado – Hochul was in California on Monday, the deadline for her to set an election date, and unable to make the proclamation herself.
On Monday, before Hochul made the election date official, Sam Berger, a young law school graduate, formally launched his campaign with the backing of his predecessor.
Berger, the son local district leader Paula Berger, announced his campaign via an email on Monday.
“I understand what our community wants, and more importantly, what it needs. We all share a common goal: to ensure the safety and welfare of our homes, schools, streets and families,' Berger said. "If you send me to Albany, I pledge to be your relentless advocate, tirelessly working to address the issues that matter most to you. As your representative, I will introduce legislation aimed at enhancing the well-being and quality of life in our neighborhoods. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community.”
The St. John’s Law School graduate already has a leg up from whoever else may launch a bid for the open seat, receiving Rosenthal’s endorsement so early in the shortened campaign.
"I am proud to endorse Sam Berger for Assembly District 27, and I am confident in his ability to advocate for the best interests of our constituents," Rosenthal said in a statement to the Eagle. "His passion, dedication, and knowledge will undoubtedly serve our community well. Sam is a devoted father, an advocate, and a proud product of the very community he aspires to serve.”
"His personal and professional experiences equip him with the knowledge and passion needed to be an outstanding representative for our district,” he added.
Berger said he is “deeply honored” to receive the endorsement.
“[Rosenthal’s] dedication to our community and commitment to public service have been exemplary, and I am grateful to have his support,” he said. “I stand ready to continue his progress and work tirelessly to represent the people of Assembly District 27.”