In keeping with his low-key style, Assemblyman Brian Barnwell quietly ended his re-election bid Tuesday in a simple two-sentence message on social media.
Barnwell made his decision known after he submitted his petition signatures to the Board of Elections last week to appear on the June 28 Democratic primary ballot.
“It is with sadness that I announce that I will not be seeking re-election to the NYS Assembly,” the lawmaker wrote on Twitter. “It has been a true honor to serve, and I will never forget that I owe everything to the kindness of the people who allowed me to serve as their representative.”
It is with sadness that I announce that I will not be seeking re-election to the NYS Assembly. It has been a true honor to serve, and I will never forget that I owe everything to the kindness of the People who allowed me to serve as their representative. #Ad30 #Queens
— Brian Barnwell (@Barnwell30) April 12, 2022
Barnwell did not respond to phone calls and emails requesting clarification, but his district office confirmed that he had decided to end his re-election bid, without providing any details.
The assemblyman grew up in the Boulevard Gardens Apartments in Woodside dreaming of a career in the military until he was diagnosed with scoliosis, or curvature of the spine. Three back surgeries and metal rods stabilizing his spine ended his thoughts of serving in the armed forces.
