By: Jordan Baker

A former New York City police lieutenant who once sharply criticized socialist-leaning politicians is now repositioning himself within the city’s progressive political landscape, as he campaigns for a State Assembly seat in Queens, according to reporting by the New York Post.

Shamsul Haque, a retired member of the NYPD and founder of the civic group “Rise Up New York City,” is seeking election in the 30th Assembly District. His candidacy comes amid a reshuffling of local political offices, creating an open and competitive race in a district that has historically leaned Democratic.

According to the New York Post, Haque’s campaign reflects a notable shift in political positioning. In recent years, he had publicly criticized members of the Democratic Socialists of America and other progressive officials, arguing their policies were detrimental to working-class New Yorkers. He had also previously aligned himself with more moderate or conservative candidates, including involvement in Republican-backed efforts during prior election cycles.

However, his current campaign messaging tells a different story. Haque is now expressing support for several policy priorities commonly associated with the city’s progressive wing, including proposals focused on economic inequality and taxation of higher-income earners. He has also moved closer politically to Zohran Mamdani, a prominent figure within New York’s progressive movement and the city’s current mayor.

The shift is underscored by strategic decisions within his campaign. As noted by the New York Post, Haque has enlisted legal counsel previously connected to Mamdani’s political efforts, signaling a deeper alignment with that faction of city politics.

The race itself has drawn multiple candidates, reflecting both the diversity and competitiveness of Queens politics. Among those also seeking the seat are Patrick Martinez, who is backed by elements of the local Democratic establishment, and community leader Somnath Ghimire. The contest follows a chain of political moves that opened the seat, including decisions by sitting officials to pursue other offices.

The 30th Assembly District has been a reliably Democratic stronghold, making the primary contest particularly significant. Previous election results suggest that the eventual Democratic nominee is likely to have a strong advantage in the general election, further intensifying competition within the party.

Haque’s evolving political stance highlights broader dynamics within New York City’s political landscape, where ideological lines within the Democratic Party continue to shift. As progressive candidates and policies gain traction in certain districts, some candidates appear to be recalibrating their platforms to align with changing voter preferences.

Whether Haque’s repositioning will resonate with voters remains to be seen. His candidacy now sits at the intersection of competing political currents in Queens—balancing his past record with his present-day campaign message in a closely watched local race.