By Patrick Donachie
State Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park) announced last week that he would not run for re-election to represent the 23rd District, which covers Broad Channel, Lindenwood and swaths of Howard Beach, Ozone Park and the Rockaways.
In an e-mail he sent to supporters, Goldfeder said he decided not to run again so he could spend more time with his family.
“I’m truly humbled by the support I’ve received from voters, leaders in the community and my colleagues at all levels of government,” he said in the e-mail. “Your partnership, but most importantly, your friendship has allowed us to rebound from Sandy, improve every neighborhood and create a stronger future for all.”
In a phone interview, Goldfeder said that the birth of his son in April helped him arrive at the decision. He noted that Assembly members must spend half of the year in Albany, participating in the Legislature.
“This was by far the hardest decision I ever had to make,” he said. “I love the people and I love the work.”
Goldfeder, who grew up in Far Rockaway, was elected to represent the 23rd District in a special election held to replace outgoing Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer in September 2011 when she was named Queens County clerk. He ran unopposed in the 2012 and 2014 elections. Prior to his election to the Assembly, Goldfeder worked in Michael Bloomberg’s mayoral administration and as the director of intergovernmental affairs for U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY).
Goldfeder’s district was markedly affected during Superstorm Sandy, with many residences and businesses suffering significant damage. Goldfeder represented homeowners who were concerned by what they perceived was a sluggish pace of recovery for the embattled areas. He also supported a re-purposing of the Long Island Rail Road Rockaway Beach Rail Line.
In the remainder of his term, Goldfeder said he intended to continue working on the issues that had been his focus throughout his tenure, and he also said he looked forward to being involved in the general election campaign to select a candidate to fill his seat. When asked what he wanted to see in a potential successor, he said he hoped the next candidate would continue the work he had started.
“My successor would have the same passion and energy for the Assembly district, in fighting for transportation equity, for infrastructure updates and to ensure a full recovery from Sandy,” he said.
Reach reporter Patrick Donachie by e-mail at pdona
