Democrats: Ackerman to Retire

According to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman will step down at the end of his current term, rather than run again in a new Sixth District.

Ackerman, who pledged last week to run in the newly-created Sixth District comprised of Forest Hills, Flushing, and portions of other neighborhoods, had a change of heart, and informed local Democrats that he will not pursue another term in Congress.

On Tuesday, Ackerman was campaigning at the Forest Hills Civic Association meeting on Metropolitan Avenue. By Thursday night, however, he had changed his mind.

“The residents of Queens and Long Island have honored me with their trust and support for the past 34 years, first as a New York State Senator, and for the past 15 terms as a Member of Congress,” Ackerman said in a statement. “I’ve been truly privileged to have had the opportunity to fight for the beliefs of my neighbors in both the State Capital and in the halls of Congress. During my years in Congress, it has been my pleasure to address the needs of thousands of individual constituents and to influence domestic and global policy while serving on the Financial and Foreign Affairs Committees in the House. I am most thankful for the opportunity I’ve had to serve my country and my community.”  

His campaign has so far not replied to a request for comment.

The DCCC thanked Ackerman for his years of service in an e-mail. 

"For nearly 30 years Congressman Gary Ackerman has served the people of New York and worked tirelessly in their service. From his early days fighting for family leave in New York, through his legislation that mandates HIV testing for newborn babies, there’s never been a moment where Gary hasn’t put the people of New York first," DCCC Chairman Steve Israel said.  “He’s been a leader on the Foreign Affairs Committee, particularly when it comes to the Middle East, and been a staunch and steadfast ally for Israel. For me, Gary has been a good friend for a long time and we'll miss his New York deli event.”

There was no hint in the DCCC's e-mail as to who the Democrats in Queens are likely to select to run in his place.