(Paul Martinka)
It’s Gracie Mansion or bust.
Embattled Comptroller John Liu told key supporters that he definitely won’t seek re-election next year to remain the city’s chief financial officer, sources said.
But Liu kept the door ajar for a long-shot mayoral run, despite a federal probe of his campaign fund-raising operation, which has damaged his political standing.
“I’m going big — or I’m going home,” Liu told top allies, according to sources privy to the conversations.
“In other words, he’s going to run for mayor or not run for office at all,” an insider said.
Liu discussed his intentions in phone calls to influential backers over the past week. He also attended a number of events with key constituencies in recent days, including the annual Somos Uno Conference sponsored by New York’s Latino lawmakers.
But even admirers said the straw donor fund-raising scandal engulfing Liu has sunk his chances for mayor. The ongoing federal probe has led to charges against his campaign treasurer, Jenny Hou, and key money man, Oliver Pan.
“We’ve moved on,” said one labor leader. “We have other qualified candidates to support for mayor.”
Liu would neither confirm nor deny he’s ruled out a re-election bid.
“I am not going to comment on any rumors or speculation,” said his campaign spokesman, George Arzt.
Meanwhile, Liu yesterday visited a matzoh bakery in Brooklyn’s Borough Park ahead of Passover.
While donning a yarmulke and tossing a log into the 1,200-degree wood-burning oven, Liu said, “I can feel the heat!”
He defended his visit to the Jewish bakery when asked if the event fit into his duties as comptroller.
“Passover is a very important holiday, and I feel privileged to visit this matzoh bakery that is shipping worldwide and is contributing to the economy of this community and the City of New York,” he said.