A possible front runner in the race for state Attorney General is out.

State Senator Michael Gianaris of Queens made the official announcement Thursday. 

He was largely considered a leading opponent against Public Advocate Letitia James, who announced her candidacy earlier this week. 

"So I am not going to be seeking the office of attorney general this year. I'm going to focus on taking the Senate back for Democrats and I'm going to be supporting Tish James who I think will make a wonderful attorney general," Gianaris said.

In a statement, James said, "I am honored to receive the support of Senator Michael Gianaris. I look forward to working together to advance a progressive agenda."

James needs 25 percent of the committee vote at the Democratic Convention to put her name on the ballot this fall.