Joe Lhota told Republican leaders Wednesday he’s running for mayor.
The former MTA boss made his case to capture City Hall clear during a whirlwind of meetings.
“Joe Lhota is running. He’s got the fire in the belly,” said GOP power broker Guy Molinari, the former Staten Island borough president and congressman who sat down with Lhota.
Lhota officially stepped down as MTA chairman on Jan. 1. Because of his government job, he refrained from talking to party leaders about his intentions — but now he is free to do so.
Staten Island GOP chairman Bob Scamardella came away impressed.
“Mr. Lhota made an excellent case that he would be an effective mayor,” Scamardella said.
“I asked if he has decided to run. Mr. Lhota told me, `I’m going through the decision-making process now. But I wouldn’t have the left the MTA if I did not think I was going to be a candidate for mayor.’”
Lhota likely faces a primary fight. Grocery mogul John Catsamitides, Doe Fund founder George MacDonald, publisher Tom Allon and former Bronx Democratic Borough President Adolfo Carrion also are vying for the GOP nomination.
Lhota helped run the city as former Mayor Rudy Giuilani’s top deputy at City Hall, But he lacks the name recognition of Giuliani, who was a popular federal prosecutor when he first ran for mayor, or the financial resources of billionaire Mayor Bloomberg, who self financed his successful campaigns.
The GOP leaders also discussed challenges of a Republican running for office in a city that has become even more favorable to Democrats.
For example, President Obama carried Staten Island — long considered GOP friendly turf — by 3,000 votes over Mitt Romney last year.
“It’s a tough, tough road. But Joe can do it,” insisted Molinari.