Retiring Democratic New York Rep. Jerry Nadler endorsed his former aide Monday in a crowded Democratic primary to replace him in the state's 12th District. 

Nadler chose to endorse former staffer and New York State Assemblyman Micah Lasher over the late-President John F. Kennedy's grandson Jack Schlossberg, former conservative lawyer George Conway and Parkland shooting survivor Cameron Kasky. 

The congressman claimed in a video on X that Lasher “by every measure, stands above the rest.”

“Micah got his start in government working with me, but it’s what he’s done since that makes him my choice for Congress,” Nadler stated, highlighting his career in New York City and state government where he advocated against gun violence, oil companies and defended abortion access.

“Micah’s record as a legislator, though, is what truly sets him apart,” Nadler continued. “He’s emerged as New York’s protector-in-chief against all things Trump and drafted the blueprint for what Democratic-led states can do to fight back." 

The New York state lawmaker last year introduced a measure that grants New Yorkers the right to file suit against federal officials who violate their constitutional rights, according to The Hill. The measure was in response to the Trump administsration's widespread immigration crackdown.

Lasher has served in the state legislature since January 2025 but said in September that he was running for Congress after his former boss announced he would not seek reelection.

“Jerry Nadler has set an incredibly high bar for decades for smart, principled, progressive leadership on issue after issue,” Lasher wrote on X on Monday. “I’m honored beyond words to have his support.”

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.