Erik Bottcher files to run for Congress

New York City Council Member Erik Bottcher quietly filed to run for Congress on Wednesday, campaign finance records show, making him the latest to join the crowded field of people looking to replace longtime Rep. Jerry Nadler as he prepares to retire at the end of 2026. 

In filing, Bottcher said he is “laying the groundwork for a potential run,” something he is “seriously considering.”

That foundation may already be pretty strong. “I think the real story is going to be how much we raise tomorrow, because I think we’re going to have a really good first 24 hours,” Bottcher told City & State at approximately 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. He added that the campaign had “already raised a ton,” but declined to give an estimate on the record. 

“I love my country and I love my city, and they're under attack by fascist forces at the highest levels of our government – it's time for a new generation to step up and take charge,” Bottcher said. 

He’d been discussed as a potential candidate for the seat – though perhaps secondarily to Assembly Member Micah Lasher, who is viewed as Nadler’s heir apparent and is already running, and Assembly Member Alex Bores, who has expressed interest in running but has yet to file. Jack Schlossberg, influencer and the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy is also interested, and nonprofit founder Liam Elkind has already filed. 

Bottcher, who has represented Chelsea, the West Village, Flatiron and Hell’s Kitchen since 2022, is up for reelection in November.