Chirlane McCray, wife of New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, is officially not running for Brooklyn Borough President, ending several months of speculation. New York City’s First Lady announced her decision on NY1 Thursday night.

Speaking by phone, McCray said she was focused on the city’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I thought about it long and hard and decided that in this urgent moment there was so much to be done right now, right here where I am. and my priority is to see this through,” said McCray. 

Her announcement comes as de Blasio faces ongoing management challenges within his administration, compounded by recent spikes in coronavirus cases that led to increased restrictions, and widespread protest, particularly in parts of Brooklyn. 

De Blasio has long called McCray his closest adviser, tapping her for formal leadership roles within his administration. She led the city’s mental health initiative known as ThriveNYC, which has been criticized for its high price tag and uneven results. 

Most recently, in April the Mayor made McCray a co-chair of one of the city’s first recovery initiatives, the Racial Inclusion and Equity task force, along with Deputy Mayor Phil Thompson.

At that time, McCray played a more visible role during de Blasio’s daily briefings, leading to some speculation that the appointment was designed to boost her chances in the Brooklyn Borough President’s race. But she has not been a regular presence in many weeks and she never formally set up a committee with the city’s Campaign Finance Board.

Asked if she would consider any future run for office on Thursday night, McCray did not rule it out. “I don’t know what the future holds for me,” said McCray. 

Eight other candidates have already set Brooklyn Borough President campaign committees with the CFB, including  Council members Antonio Reynoso and Robert Cornegy Jr, who both issued statements praising the First Lady.

McCray was often attacked by critics of the de Blasio administration, most recently by an outspoken opponent of the city and state’s public health restrictions in the Orthodox community. She was also held in high regard by those who knew her well, including former deputy mayor Richard Buery worked with McCray on her ThriveNYC initiative.

The primary for Brooklyn Borough President will take place next June.