Dan Garodnick (Photo: Wikimedia)

Two of the candidates vying to replace New York City Comptroller John Liu, who looks like to run for Mayor in 2013, will report raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for their campaigns at the close of the most recent filing period. This sets the stage for a spirited Democratic primary between two Councilmen seeking this citywide office.

Councilman Domenic Recchia, who's term-limited out in 2013, reported raising over $275,000 with $540,000 in the bank, while Councilman Dan Garodnick sent out an email to supporters announcing $1,000,000 in total fundraising and $280,000 over the last six months. A source close to the Garodnick campaign said that his cash on hand will be about $940,000.

"I am even more confident that we will be in an extremely strong position to run for higher office next year" Mr. Garodnick said in the email. "And I thank you for everything that you did to help me get to where I am today."

Comptroller Liu tumbled in the polls for the 2013 mayoral race after some illegal fundraising efforts on his behalf were caught in an FBI sting. This has created some speculation that he might seek to run for reelection instead of Gracie Mansion, but Mr. Liu has given all appearances of continuing on his path for higher office. It's unclear how Mr. Liu's decision would affect Mr. Garodnick and Mr. Recchia's potential campaigns.