Democratic incumbents in New York face significant challenges in congressional primaries on Tuesday, as progressive candidates backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani seek to reshape the city’s representation. This electoral contest highlights the ongoing struggle between the progressive left and the Democratic party establishment.
U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman and U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat are both defending their seats against candidates endorsed by Mamdani. The mayor, a democratic socialist elected last year, aims to extend his influence by supporting challengers to established Democrats.
Dan Goldman’s primary opponent is former city Comptroller Brad Lander. Meanwhile, Adriano Espaillat is challenged by Darializa Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist also backed by Mamdani. Avila Chevalier previously organized pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University.
In a separate contest, Jack Schlossberg, 33, grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, is competing in a crowded field for the seat vacated by retiring U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler. Schlossberg is running in one of Manhattan’s wealthiest congressional districts. He faces scrutiny over his limited work experience compared to more seasoned opponents. Mamdani has not endorsed a candidate in this particular race.
The field for Nadler’s former seat includes state Assembly members Micah Lasher and Alex Bores. Lasher, a long-time government official, has the support of Democratic leaders. Bores’ proposals for artificial intelligence regulation have drawn criticism from the tech industry. George Conway, a former attorney and co-founder of The Lincoln Project, is also a candidate, focusing his campaign on impeaching the president.
Mayor Mamdani, only months into his first term, has aggressively endorsed candidates challenging Democrats supported by party leadership. His strategy could position him as a democratic socialist kingmaker with new allies in Congress if his slate succeeds. However, this approach also risks further dividing Democrats and straining his relationships with party leaders.
Last month, Mamdani endorsed Avila Chevalier, 32, in her race against Espaillat, 71. Espaillat, the first Dominican American elected to Congress, represents a district in upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Espaillat had initially supported former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in last year’s mayoral election but later backed Mamdani after his primary victory. Avila Chevalier, who has not held political office, presents herself as an outsider.
The outcomes of these primaries will indicate the current strength of the progressive movement within New York’s Democratic party. Future elections will reveal whether Mamdani’s endorsements lead to lasting shifts in the city’s congressional delegation or if they create deeper divisions among Democrats. The impact on party unity and future legislative priorities remains to be seen.