The City Council leader who had hoped to become New York City's first female and first openly gay mayor says she's leaving the council honored and proud to have served in it.
Christine Quinn reflected Thursday on her eight-year tenure as council speaker. She spoke ahead of its final meeting this year. She and many colleagues leave office Dec. 31.
Quinn was a leading Democratic mayoral candidate early in this year's race. She ultimately placed third in the primary, won by now Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio.
Quinn didn't say what she'll do next professionally.
Quinn says she has "enormous respect for the power of the City Council." She's served since 1999.
Asked what she'd miss least, Quinn — using some salty language — said there was nothing she wouldn't miss.