Nadler Endorses Former Aide Micah Lasher as Successor in Congress

Retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler backs Lasher in race for New York's 12th Congressional District

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Retiring U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY) has endorsed his former aide, New York State Assemblyman Micah Lasher (D), to succeed him in representing New York's 12th Congressional District. Nadler's endorsement creates a rivalry in the Democratic primary, as it contrasts with reports that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi plans to support another candidate, Jack Schlossberg.

Why it matters

Nadler's retirement has created a rare open seat in Manhattan's 12th Congressional District, sparking a competitive primary race with over a dozen candidates from both parties vying for the position. Nadler's endorsement of Lasher, his former aide, is seen as a significant boost for Lasher's campaign and could influence the outcome of the Democratic primary.

The details

Micah Lasher previously served as policy director for New York Governor Kathy Hochul and legislative affairs director under former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Lasher has also introduced a bill to limit ICE arrests at sensitive locations. With Nadler's endorsement, Lasher is positioning himself as a 'protector-in-chief against all things Trump' and has drafted blueprints for state resistance.

  • On Monday, Rep. Jerry Nadler endorsed New York State Assembly Member Micah Lasher to succeed him in the Manhattan-area district.

The players

Jerry Nadler

A U.S. Representative from New York's 12th Congressional District who is retiring and has endorsed his former aide, Micah Lasher, to succeed him.

Micah Lasher

A New York State Assemblyman who is running to succeed Jerry Nadler in the 12th Congressional District, with Nadler's endorsement.

Kathy Hochul

The current Governor of New York, for whom Micah Lasher previously served as policy director.

Michael Bloomberg

The former Mayor of New York City, for whom Micah Lasher previously served as legislative affairs director.

Nancy Pelosi

The Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, who is reportedly planning to support a different candidate, Jack Schlossberg, in the race for New York's 12th Congressional District.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud and excited to endorse @micahlasher for Congress”

— Jerry Nadler, U.S. Representative (Twitter)

What’s next

The Democratic primary for New York's 12th Congressional District is expected to be highly competitive, with Nadler's endorsement of Lasher potentially influencing the outcome.

The takeaway

Nadler's endorsement of his former aide Micah Lasher highlights the significance of the open seat in New York's 12th Congressional District and the potential for a contentious Democratic primary, as the party seeks to retain control of this Manhattan-area district.