Even De Blasio's Wife Unsure He Should Run For President In 2020

NEW YORK — Not even one of Mayor Bill de Blasio's closest advisers and confidantes is convinced he should run for president in 2020. While she stood by her husband's record, first lady Chirlane McCray suggested now is not the right time for the mayor to launch a White House bid.

"I think he’d be a great president. The timing is not exactly right," McCray said in an episode of Politico's "Women Rule" podcast released Wednesday. "He’s very focused on being mayor."

De Blasio has repeatedly said he has not ruled out a long-shot presidential run in a crowded field of Democrats looking to unseat President Donald Trump.

The mayor traveled last weekend to Iowa, the home of the first presidential caucuses, and has sought a role on the national stage throughout his tenure in City Hall. But his reported moves toward a possible White House run have drawn laughter and ridicule from some New Yorkers.

De Blasio has built a strong record in his five years in office, McCray said, pointing to the city's low crime, the mayor's universal pre-kindergarten program, and his effort to expand health care services for the uninsured.

While she's not sure de Blasio should jump into the fray, McCray said she wants to see a Democratic presidential candidate with qualities similar to his.

"Those are huge accomplishments, and I’m looking for someone like that," she said in the interview recorded Jan. 24. "I’m looking for someone who could take on those kinds of tough battles and make that happen for everyone."

McCray's input could have a big influence on de Blasio. He has called her "my partner in all things," and she has played a role in high-level administration appointments.

McCray said de Blasio even consulted her when he was hiring people for his City Council office. "He's always asked for my advice," she said.

"I’m not his only adviser, and he doesn’t always take my advice, although generally we’re on the same page," McCray added.

McCray worked as a speechwriter for former Mayor David Dinkins and currently oversees ThriveNYC, the city's wide-ranging mental health initiative. She has said she is considering a run for office herself, though she said she does not currently have any hard plans.

"I have three years. I have time to think about it," she said. "I encourage other women to run all the time because I think it’s important for us to have more of our voices in the public discourse and making legislation and setting priorities that are needed so much by our families."