Metro

Comptroller Liu only has eyes for mayor’s office

It’s mayor or bust for John Liu.

The comptroller, whose former campaign treasurer is facing federal fraud charges, says there’s no chance he’ll drop out of the mayor’s race and seek re-election to his current job.

“I’ve spent most of my career not in politics and I have no qualms about continuing my profession where I left off,” Liu said at a fundraiser in Chinatown Monday night.

“So I don’t have to be in office. But if I’m going to be in office, there has to be a real compelling reason…”

That’s good news for Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, the heavy favorite to succeed Liu.

Political insiders say Liu has only a remote chance of emerging as the Democratic mayoral nominee, but would be a formidable contender if he sought another term as comptroller.

Liu has until June to make a final decision, since that’s when all candidates for office this year have to hand in their nominating petitions.

But it seems like he’s sealed the door on the drop-bak option.

Asked if he will endorse Stringer, Liu responded: “Scott would be a great comptroller. I think he knows the issues.”