Queens DA Election: State Comptroller Endorses Melinda Katz

QUEENS, NY — Queens Borough President Melinda Katz won her first official statewide endorsement on Wednesday for her bid to become the borough's next district attorney.

New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli endorsed Katz on Wednesday, part of a boost from state officials to Katz's campaign just weeks ahead of the June 25 primary election that is expected to determine Queens' next DA.

"She’s a skilled lawyer, a passionate advocate on behalf of the people of Queens, and an expert administrator who knows how to bring communities together to make change," DiNapoli said in a statement.

"The reforms she’s proposing - from an end to cash bail to new bureaus in the office that will better protect workers and immigrants - will make Queens a safer and more equitable community. She has my full support," he added.

(Read more about the upcoming election with Patch's Guide To The Democratic Primary Candidates and Guide To The Role Of The District Attorney)

DiNapoli's endorsement comes a day after Gov. Andrew Cuomo expressed his support for Katz's campaign during a WNYC interview, though Cuomo has not formerly endorsed her. Cuomo will appear at a fundraiser supporting Katz next week.

"She is a different type of politician," Cuomo told WNYC. "She is gutsy, she is tough, she gets things done."

Katz's advertised endorsements drew scrutiny this week after Assemblyman Brian Barnwell said he didn't endorse anyone in the race, even though Katz has touted his support for months.

"Never said I would endorse her," Barnwell told City & State, which first reported on the contested endorsement.

Katz has led fundraising in the crowded primary, the Queens Eagle reports, though her total also includes money rolled over from prior campaigns. Katz already has the support of the powerful Queens County Democratic Party and its new leader, Rep. Gregory Meeks.