Bill de Blasio (Photo: Getty)

The Republicans aren't the only ones making moves in next year's mayoral race before voters head to the polls this year. Emma Wolfe, Public Advocate Bill de Blasio's chief of staff, is leaving her role in his government office to join his own still-unannounced campaign for Gracie Mansion.

"I'm writing to let you know I'm moving on from the Public Advocate's office -- albeit not too far. I'll be working for Bill for his New Yorkers for de Blasio campaign committee," Ms. Wolfe wrote in a staff email today. "I couldn't have worked with and learned from (on a daily basis) a more talented and dedicated team of folks and I'll miss you dearly - but I look forward to staying in close touch."

Ms. Wolfe, who will begin her new job as political director for Mr. de Blasio's 2013 campaign on Monday, previously worked closely with the Working Families Party during the 2009 election season, and is credited with helping the State Senate Democratic conference temporarily take control over their chamber before that.

We reached out to Ms. Wolfe, who said she's "looking forward to being able to do more to help Bill build coalitions in neighborhoods around the city."

Taking over much of her government responsibilities will be Lydon Sleeper, who formerly served as Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley's chief of staff, with the other senior staff members working in support.

Other likely candidate in 2013's Democratic primary for mayor include Council Speaker Christine Quinn, 2009 nominee Bill Thompson, Comptroller John Liu and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer.