Lincoln Restler Decides Against Levin Challenge

BROOKLYN, N.Y.

Williamsburg’s former district leader Lincoln Restler nixed a highly touted race against City Councilman Stephen Levin, coming on the heels of a pair of two tight wins and losses the Vito Lopez antagonist had with the latter’s allies.

“While I’ve had my share of disagreements with Councilmember Stephen Levin,” Restler, 28, wrote in an email to supporters, “I also respect that he has been a member of the Progressive Caucus, has brought participatory budgeting to our community, and has strived to actively represent our neighborhoods.”

Restler was seen as a strong contender for the 33rd council district against Levin, a former chief of staff to the scandal-scarred Lopez. But the redistricting map that was finalized weeks ago placed him in a harsh district.

“It came as a surprise,” Levin said after hearing the news.

Sources in the Daily News said that Restler may run to for state Sen. Daniel Squadron’s seat. Squadron, another Lopez ally, is campaigning to become New York City public advocate.

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