Several leading Queens Democrats decided not to run when faced with those possibilities.

"Governor, in my humble, off-the-record opinion, is going to be a big scrape," one Queens Democrat said.

The Speaker, a Queens Democrat, did not attend today's hearing.

"Some may consider this a frivolous exercise," the Queens Democrat said.

But the Councilman, a Queens Democrat, said the style could be carried too far.

The Queens Democrat took over the post last December after the conviction of his predecessor on fraud charges.

Queens Democrats are to meet on May 19 to select their slate for the November election.

Queens Democrats say they are also reaching out for immigrants.

"It's the right thing to do and it's long overdue," said the Queens Democrat.

Because the seat is open, with no incumbent, Queens Democrats insist that it is unclear which candidate has the advantage.

Several leading Queens Democrats decided not to run when faced with those possibilities.

"Governor, in my humble, off-the-record opinion, is going to be a big scrape," one Queens Democrat said.

The Speaker, a Queens Democrat, did not attend today's hearing.

"Some may consider this a frivolous exercise," the Queens Democrat said.

But the Councilman, a Queens Democrat, said the style could be carried too far.

The Queens Democrat took over the post last December after the conviction of his predecessor on fraud charges.

Queens Democrats are to meet on May 19 to select their slate for the November election.

Queens Democrats say they are also reaching out for immigrants.

"It's the right thing to do and it's long overdue," said the Queens Democrat.

Because the seat is open, with no incumbent, Queens Democrats insist that it is unclear which candidate has the advantage.