New York City – Comptroller-Elect Snubs Mayor Bloomberg

New York City – Michael R. Bloomberg, stung by an election outcome that revealed resentment over his undoing of the term limits law and his extravagant campaign spending, moved quickly Wednesday to strike a conciliatory tone as he reached out to the Democratic establishment that backed his opponent in the mayor’s race.

As aides worried that the narrow win — by a margin of less than 5 percent — would embolden previously cowed lawmakers, the mayor made clear in meetings and telephone calls with Democratic leaders that he understood that the roughness of his campaign had upset some people.

But in his conspicuous gestures, Mr. Bloomberg and his aides also sought to send another message: we are still in charge.

Signs of an altered landscape quickly emerged as Mr. Bloomberg, never known for his humility, made an elaborate show of deference. His staff hastily arranged a highly visible meeting, at a Manhattan restaurant, with the city’s public advocate-elect, Bill de Blasio, a Democrat. Just a few weeks ago, the mayor said the citywide office was “a waste of everyone’s money,” and called for its abolition.

But tellingly, when the mayor tried to meet with John C. Liu, the Democratic comptroller-elect, Mr. Liu said he could not find time on his schedule, a highly unusual slight.

Later, Mr. Liu told a reporter: “A long time ago, the people of New York decided there would be no king nor a monarch in New York City.”

Meanwhile the Staten Island Advance is reporting that Sources familiar with the plans said the mayor actually called Tuesday night. Stu Loeser, a spokesman for the mayor, said the two sides are working to set up a date for a future meeting.

“I told the mayor’s office, John has a very busy schedule. He plans to have a conversation with the mayor soon,” said spokeswoman Juanita Scarlett.

In interviews, Democratic lawmakers said the mayor would face greater opposition from the City Council and the State Legislature, especially in districts where he performed poorly

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