But Mr. Siegel resigned from the civil liberties union in 2001 to run for public advocate.

Later this year, Mr. Lopez will decide whether to run for public advocate in 2001.

But still frustrated by the relatively poor flow of information in New York City, he decided to run for public advocate.

She decided to run for public advocate, a much less powerful position, after weighing her chances.

Earlier this year, Mr. Siegel set up an exploratory committee to run for public advocate.

Supporters have told her, she said, that she should consider running for: mayor, public advocate and Queens borough president.

"Just like that, he asked me to dinner," recalled Ms. Gotbaum, who is now running for public advocate.

He once ran for public advocate and, a few years later, tried to become the Manhattan borough president.

He even considered running for public advocate again in last year's race.

Mr. Lopez has made no secret of his intention of running for public advocate in two years.