In a rare Republican primary in Queens, Councilman Eric Ulrich and attorney Juan Reyes are set to face off for the 15th District State Senate Seat.
Last week, rumors were swirling that the Queens County Republican Party was planning to support a candidate other than Ulrich, who announced his bid for senate in April.
On May 30, it became official—the Queens GOP announced they are putting up Reyes, a privately practicing attorney in Forest Hills.
Ulrich and the Queens Republicans aren’t exactly friendly with each other. In January, Ulrich lashed out at the local party, calling its leadership is corrupt.
They fired back, saying Ulrich is unfit for office, and now they have put up a candidate against him trying to prove that point.
“The Republican Party is pleased to officially endorse Juan Reyes for State Senate,” Queens GOP Chairman Phil Ragusa said. “Juan has the experience, consistency of principle and judgment necessary to represent this Queens district.”
Reyes worked on Sen. Bob Dole’s campaign and as counsel in former Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s administration.
He currently works in private practice at the Forest Hills firm Reed Smith LLP.
He is also a husband and the father of three young daughters.
“I am honored to have the Queens GOP’s endorsement as I campaign to bring our district’s vital message to Albany,” Reyes said. “That message is one of less spending, lower taxes, less burdensome regulations; more accountability, more transparency, and more freedom that leads to greater growth and economic strength.”
The Queens GOP’s endorsement of Reyes didn’t mention the ongoing feud between Ulrich and the county organization. It didn’t mentioning Ulrich at all and focused solely on incumbent State Senator Joe Addabbo.
“Juan is the best candidate to face incumbent Democratic State Senator Joseph Addabbo this fall, who has been woefully ineffective in the State Senate,” Ragusa’s quote continued. “Addabbo has been virtually missing-in-action when it comes to delivering for this overtaxed and hardworking community.”
Ulrich, too, seemed confident enough to try to sidestep the primary competition.
“While I welcome Juan into the race, my main focus is still on November,” Ulrich said. “I am proud to have the backing and full confidence of the Senate Majority Leader, the local District Leaders, and the entire Republican conference.”
The primary for state offices will be on Sept. 13.
