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Local Politicians Weigh in on Term Limits

by Matthew Schuerman

NEW YORK, NY October 01, 2008 —Mayor Bloomberg's reported plans to extend term limits and run again are getting mixed reviews from the people hoping to take his place. Queens Councilman Tony Avella calls the idea shameful. Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz says he may step out of the mayor's race and just run for re-election to allow Bloomberg to stay in office. And City Comptroller Bill Thompson says term limits should be extended only if New Yorkers get a say.

Thompson says after the September 11th attacks, supporters of then-Mayor Rudy Giuliani wanted to change the law to keep him in office, but term limits stayed in place.

THOMPSON: We put a whole group of new people in office, a group of new leaders to lead this city, and we appear to have done well.

REPORTER: City voters have voted twice to support the current limit of two terms. Bloomberg is expected to announce tomorrow that he's seeking a third term.


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