Bill Thompson considers U.S. Senate bid in New York

Former New York City Comptroller and 2009 NYC Mayoral Democratic nominee Bill Thompson is considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by fellow Democrat Kristen Gillibrand.

According to senior Thompson aides, taking on Gillibrand is one of three options being discussed by the former Comptroller. Thompson is also considering a bid for state Comptroller or a return to the private sector until 2013 when he can launch a second bid for New York City Mayor.

Thompson is expected to make a decision in mid January regarding the 2010 elections. According to the New York Times, a number of Democratic activists and elected officials throughout New York are encouraging Thompson to take on Gillibrand. Gillibrand is seen as vulnerable and there are reports that Rudy Giuliani and George Pataki are both considering runs which would give the GOP a strong candidate in New York.

Congressman Jose Serrano is among those encouraging Thompson to run for the U.S. Senate. "I think Thompson would make a great candidate", Serrano said. "He is a progressive voice that hasn't moved one way or the other over the years, and people would respect that".

Serrano also said that Thompson's candidacy would be a "national candidacy".
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This would be an exciting primary to watch and I would strongly support Thompson. With Roland Burris leaving the Senate, there will not be an African American in the Senate unless Kendrick Meek wins in Florida. That in my opinion is unfortunate. Not only would Mr. Thompson bring diversity to the Senate, he would bring a strong progressive voice. I hope he runs and I will never underestimate Thompson again. He came within points of beating Bloomberg despite being outspent incredibly.