“The last time the United Federation of Teachers endorsement got someone elected (mayor) was better than two decades ago,” Bloomberg said Monday, referring to the UFT nod for David Dinkins in 1989. “It’s almost the kiss of death.”

Bloomberg theorized that voters “understand if the UFT wants it, it ain’t good and you don’t want that person.”

UFT President Michael Mulgrew shot back that “most” candidates would “rather be the victim of zombie attack than get a Michael Bloomberg endorsement.”

There was a growing expectation Monday that the union will endorse former city Comptroller — and Board of Education president — Bill Thompson.

“We would be shocked if it wasn’t Thompson,” a high-ranking staffer on rival campaign told the Daily News. “For us, that ship has sailed.”

While Bloomberg and his predecessor Rudy Giuliani won City Hall without the UFT, the Democratic candidates this year — desperate to break through the crowded primary field — are eager for any bit of support they can get.

UFT staffers and members said that an endorsement of Thompson was likely, but won’t be a done deal until the members vote on the issue Wednesday afternoon.

The UFT then plans to hold a news conference announcing the endorsement at its lower Manhattan headquarters at around 5:45 p.m.

“All signs are pointing to Thompson,” said a teachers union chapter leader who asked to remain anonymous. “Things seem to be lining up for his endorsement.”

The national teachers’ union endorsed Thompson, as has Merryl Tisch, the chancellor of the state Board of Regents who enjoys relatively good relations with the UFT.

(The Daily News)