Philip Grillo, a former Queens Republican Party district leader, launched an underdog campaign for State Assembly, announcing his run for a seat in Eastern Queens that's currently held by a Democrat. There are many obstacles in his path: For one, in the GOP primary, Grillo will face Robert Speranza, who's backed by the county party.
"I've been clear that I intend to run for this seat whenever the race opens up, whether in 2026 or 2028. This filing is a critical step to prepare for the serious work of running to succeed one of the icons of American politics."