City Comptroller Scott Stringer was feeling confident Wednesday, a day after getting the support of the Working Families Party (WFP).

It's a much-needed shot of enthusiasm for a campaign that has lagged in the campaign's few public polls, despite wide name recognition and a multi-million dollar war chest. 

What You Need To Know

  • The party is asking supporters to rank Scott Stringer first, Dianne Morales second and Maya Wiley as their third choice

  • Voters will have to rank their choices for the first time in a mayoral primary

  • The ranking gives a boost to Dianne Morales, a political newcomer who has garnered the attention of young supporters, including a growing list of progressive lawmakers

Stringer held a rally on Wednesday alongside supporters in Lower Manhattan, including State Senator Julia Salazar and Assemblywoman Yuh-Line Niou. 

"We are building support and momentum. We are challenging the status quo. We have built up an organization and we have the resources to fund this campaign," Stringer said. 

Although he received a majority of members' vote, the WFP also made a ranked-choice endorsement. For the first time, voters will have to rank candidates in order of preference.

Both Salazar and Niou said the party's ranking reflects how they plan to vote in the upcoming June primary and how other progressives should consider filling out the ballot. 

"I am thrilled to be able to able to support Scott and rank him number one because I have seen his record. I trust him," Salazar told NY1. 

The party, which is made up of multiple progressive groups and a handful of labor unions, is asking supporters to rank Stringer first, Dianne Morales second and Maya Wiley as their third choice. 

The ranking gives a boost to Dianne Morales, a political newcomer who has garnered the attention of young supporters, including a growing list of progressive lawmakers. 

"I have tremendous respect for both Dianne Morales and Maya Wiley and other candidates in the race, but I am proud to be ranked with them," Stringer said. 

Morales was not available for an interview on Wednesday, but she sent an email to supporters questioning the concept of viability. She also suggested Stringer's endorsement is thanks in part to his long time in politics.

Stringer's allies dismissed criticism. They cited his support for their insurgent campaigns, which according to them is evidence that Stringer has been willing to embrace progressive candidates and policies for years. 

"The word viability to me doesn't mean much. Scott probably knows about viability because he took a chance on me," Niou said.