Retiring Rep. Gary Ackerman (D) endorsed state Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D) on Tuesday in her competitive primary in the 6th district.

“Grace is without question the most qualified candidate in this race,” he said in a statement released by her campaign.

Meng, backed by Queens Democratic Party Chairman Rep. Joe Crowley and the local political establishment, faces a surprisingly tough race against ambitious state Assemblyman Rory Lancman. He has the backing of a number of local unions.

Also in the primary in the safe Democratic district: New York City Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D), the cousin of the Congressman.