Today Councilwoman Julissa Ferreras-Copeland stated she will not seek reelection for her New York City Council seat. This decision has shocked many as she has fought tirelessly for her constituents and made a name for herself as a rising star in the party. Ferreras-Copeland was said to be facing a potential expensive primary, with Assemblymen Fransisco Moya and former state Senator Hiram Monserate named as possible challengers. Not long after Ferreras-Copeland’s announcement, Assemblymen Fransisco Moya announced his intention to seek her seat and county party endorsements are expected to follow.

Since becoming one of the rising Democratic elected officials in the New York City Council in 2009, Ferreras-Copeland became Queens’ first Latina elected official, served as Chair of the powerful City Council Committee on Finance, and the frontrunner for Speaker of the City Council. As the top contender for the speakership, Ferreras-Copeland was thought to be Mayor de Blasio’s favorite for the position. Now with an open seat in the 21st District, it seems to be leaning towards a county-backed contender. This also leaves the speakership position open to an overcrowded race, with nearly a dozen supposed candidates to date.