By Joe Anuta
State Assemblyman Rory Lancman not only called Jeff Gottlieb’s entrance into the Democratic race for the Queens congressional seat “a sham,” but said the Queens Democratic Party and its chosen candidate were both responsible for trying to siphon votes away from him.
At a Monday afternoon news conference, Lancman called out state Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) for what he said was a blatant attempt to try and confuse Jewish voters. Meng has been endorsed by the Queens County machine.
“I’m disappointed in Grace’s campaign,” he said, also taking the Queens County Democrats to task.
“This is a new low,” Lancman said, arguing that Gottlieb’s last name might confuse Jewish voters in the district and get some votes on Election Day that would otherwise have gone to the assemblyman.
Meng said the first time she learned of Gottlieb’s entry into the race was Monday morning.
Gottlieb, who could not be reached for comment, does not have a Federal Election Commission account and no website.
He began collecting signatures over the weekend to get on the ballot ahead of the April 16 deadline, according to Lancman, who added that Gottlieb admitted being approached by the party to run.
Gottlieb has been involved in Queens politics for decades and has worked for many Queens Democrats, including state Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Little Neck) and state Sen. Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach). He now works for the board of elections.
Reach reporter Joe Anuta by e-mail at januta@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4566.
