Diana Reyna, a former New York City Council member and ex-deputy Brooklyn borough president, will run alongisde U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi as his choice for lieutenant governor. 

Suozzi, who is challenging incumbent Kathy Hochul in the Democratic primary for governor, unveiled his running mate as Democrats meet for their state convention in New York City this week.

“Diana believes that public service is about getting things done to improve the lives of the people we serve,” Suozzi said. “As the next Lieutenant Governor, Diana will partner with me to ensure that New York State government addresses the critical issues of public safety, affordability, and improving our education system.”

Candidates for governor and lieutenant governor run separately in party primaries in New York, making any gubernatorial ticket at this stage an informal one. Reyna would face Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin in a primary, and the winner would run with the victor of the gubernatorial primary in a general election. 

Still, the announcement is Suozzi's first major endorsement in the race for governor. Hochul, who assumed office in August, has locked in a majority of the state's political establishment. 

Reyna's backing also gives him ties to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who Reyna worked for when she was in borough hall. She would also be the first Latina woman to serve statewide if elected. 

“I am honored and excited to be running alongside Tom Suozzi, as we create opportunities for all New Yorkers,” Reyna said. “Tom Suozzi and I won’t hide from the tough issues, won’t pander to the political left or right, and will stand up to the special interests and lobbyists that have been choking Albany for decades."