The campaign for longtime Democratic National Committee member Robert Zimmerman announced the endorsement of U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Queens) as he bids for his party’s nomination in the 3rd Congressional District.
Meeks, who has been chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee since 2021, said Zimmerman has committed himself to the district.
“Robert Zimmerman has demonstrated both the leadership and understanding of the issues that will make an excellent member of the United States Congress,” Meeks said in a statement. “He has amassed a strong coalition throughout this congressional district that puts him in the best position to be our nominee. Over the years, Robert has demonstrated his personal commitment to the people of Queens and the 3rd Congressional District. I know Robert will be a hands-on Congressmember, and I look forward to working with him for the betterment of our communities and our nation.”
Zimmerman, 67, is co-president of ZE Creative Communications on Bond Street in Great Neck, a public relations firm he began 33 years ago with Ron Edelson.
He is seeking the congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove), who is running for governor.
Since his announcement, Zimmerman’s campaign said it has raised over $500,000.
If elected, Zimmerman would become the first gay member of Congress from Long Island and Queens.
Other endorsements for Zimmerman’s campaign include former Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, Assemblyman Charles Lavine and state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.
According to newly drawn lines, the 3rd Congressional District will include several areas in Westchester County and the Bronx along with Manhasset, Roslyn, Port Washington, Great Neck, Floral Park, and Whitestone, Queens, among other areas, and stretches to Kings Park in Suffolk County.
Following the approval of new congressional maps by state legislators, a Republican-led group filed a lawsuit claiming the Democrats gerrymandered the districts to retain control of the House.
Others running for the Democratic nomination in the district include former North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman, Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan, state Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, Oyster Bay’s Reema Rasool and Melanie D’Arrigo of Port Washington.
The Democratic congressional primary is slated for June 28.
George Santos and Kevin Surdi are seeking the Republican nomination.