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Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio (D-Richmond Hill) handed a letter of resignation to Speaker Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan) on Tuesday, then pleaded guilty to influence peddling on Wednesday, ending a 16-term state Assembly career.

Seminerio reportedly read a minute-long statement at Federal District Court in Manhattan, where he reportedly admitted to knowingly committing illegal acts.

The United States Attorney’s office recommended a 11-to-14-year sentence for the 74-year-old, as well as a fine ranging from $17,500 to $175,000. His sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 20.

Seminerio ran uncontested for his 16th term in November despite pending corruption charges. He was arrested following a federal investigation into his consulting practice in September, accused of taking more than $500,000 in bribes.

The veteran lawmaker was fingered during the undercover operation that included recorded meetings. In one session, he allegedly admitted that he had started the consulting firm as a means of getting paid for political favors.

“I was doing favors for these sons of bitches… They were making thousands,” he said in the recordings. “Screw you, from now on, you know, I’m a consultant.”

The race to replace him has already started brewing.

On the same day of his resignation, three candidates announced their intention to replace him. Former state Senate candidate Albert Baldeo, as well as Nick Commaiani and Donna Marie Caltabiano - both community activists, plan to run for the vacant seat, whether it be in a special election or general election in November.

The governor has yet to announce how the vacant seat will be filled.

Baldeo, a South Ozone Park immigration lawyer and Democrat, enters the race with $107,000 in his campaign coffers.

“I’ve continued to be active with local civic groups and continue to help the community,” Baldeo said. “I’ve also gotten a good relationship with local state Senators.”

Woodhaven resident and Forest Park Senior Citizens Center director Caltabiano has served on School Board 27 and Community Planning Board 9 for 14 years, which she said gives her name recognition within the southern part of the district. The Republican hopes the governor will call for a special election.

“Our Assembly district is not going to get any member items,” she said, referring to Silver’s refusal to accept any pork proposed by Seminerio. “That’s not fair that the district should have their member items withheld because of the alleged misdeeds of Seminerio.”

Commaiani brings a history of volunteerism. He serves on Community Board 9, the Community Education Council for District 24 and the Glendale Civic Association. He also served in the Navy.

“I’m a volunteer – that’s always what I’ve been. This is why I decided to run,” he said.