The Brooklyn Democrat and one-time Chuck Schumer protege ousted longtime incumbent Marty Connor in a 2008 Democratic primary after assembling a coalition that included unions from the Working Families Party and forces aligned with Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

Since then, Squadron has long been seen as a comer, but it is not clear where he would jump to next. A citywide run--either for comptroller or public advocate--would be likely, assuming that the incumbents in either of those seats decide to run for mayor.

A citywide race would be an uphill climb for someone relatively new in public office, but Squadron would not have to give up his Senate seat in order to run. A source close to Squadron said the State Senator is just keeping his options open.