Some Long Island leaders are potential contenders to fill the position left by Eric Schneiderman.

Former longtime Assemblyman Jerry Kremer says although the average voter might have a hard time explaining what a state attorney general does, he says it's a high-profile and much sought-after office.

“The job of attorney general, besides being the governor's lawyer, is being the people's lawyer – as it used to be described. He's the person that starts all the actions over environmental damage, the economy and sues Harvey Weinstein,” said Kremer.

Under law, state legislators get to fill the vacancy. But instead of the state Senate and the state Assembly each making a choice, lawmakers from both houses vote collectively. Together, there are 213 lawmakers. The largest bloc of them are Democrats from New York City.

The early favorite for the position is Letitia James, who holds the office of New York City public advocate.

Other names being discussed include Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-Garden City), Nassau District Attorney Madeline Singas and state Sen. Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach).

Many believe whoever is chosen is likely to face a primary in September from others who want the Democratic nomination for the November election. 

State Democrats hold their annual convention later this month in Nassau County. That's where they will nominate candidates for the November election, including state attorney general.