Republican map-maker enters Queens Borough President race

Danniel Maio is running for Queens borough president. Photo via NYC Campaign Finance Board

By David Brand

Forest Hills resident Danniel Sun Maio, a Republican, is the latest candidate to enter the race for Queens Borough President. Maio, who designs detailed maps of New York City neighborhoods, has previously run for public advocate, state Assembly and Congress in New York’s 6th Congressional District. He also lost a bid for Queens borough president in 2001.

Maio spoke with the Eagle by phone but declined to describe many specifics of his campaign until he secures enough valid signatures to appear on the ballot for the March 24 special election. “I don’t want to waste people’s time,” he said.

Maio said he has gone door-to-door to obtain the necessary 2,000 petition signatures from registered Queens voters to appear on the ballot in the non-partisan special election. “This way not only do I get to meet them in person, I get to understand their situation,” Maio said. “I have time to listen to their situation and learn about them.” 

The special election winner will replace Melinda Katz, who resigned the office when she became Queens district attorney on Jan. 1. Candidates have until Jan. 14 to submit the signatures. 

Maio’s website no frills indicates that he is “running because of 2,278,906 residents living in Queens. We serve them. Every individual and business here.” The website also outlines the specific responsibilities of the borough president, including appointing members to Queens’ 14 community boards.

Maio was born in Taiwan and grew up in Maryland. He moved to Queens in the 1980s and spent about ten years living in Manhattan before returning to Forest Hills, he said.

He joins a crowded field that includes Councilmember Costa Constantinides, former Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley, police reform advocate Anthony Miranda, former Queens Assistant District Attorney James Quinn, Councilmember Donovan Richards and Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer.