Mr. Hynes played down his relationship with Brooklyn Democratic leaders.

Mr. Esposito, now 81, served as Brooklyn Democratic leader from 1969 to 1984.

B1 Brooklyn leaders sought ways to reduce racial and ethnic tensions at a meeting that was called the start of the first such boroughwide effort.

Mr. Norman, 52, became the Brooklyn Democratic leader in 1990, making him a power in state and local politics at a relatively young age.

Increasingly, Brooklyn political leaders are also seeking to play a larger role in the speaker's race.

Some Brooklyn leaders were bitter at what they perceived to be an attempt by Manhattan politicians to maintain their hegemony over black politics.

Ms. Clarke, however, had to battle a candidate backed by the Brooklyn Democratic leader.

This year, Brooklyn Democratic leaders also played a role in selecting the next speaker.

Mr. Esposito served as the Brooklyn Democratic leader from 1969 until 1984.

But the election this week of a new Brooklyn leader who is not committed to Mr. Giuliani could further threaten his hold over the party.