As the Democratic congressional primaries approach, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly endorsed several candidates. This move is part of a broader initiative by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to enhance their presence in Congress, as highlighted by The New York Times.
Mamdani’s endorsements elevate the stakes in these elections, highlighting the ongoing struggle between establishment Democrats and their more progressive counterparts.
It’s essential to note that last fall, Mamdani discouraged the DSA from supporting a challenge against Democratic US House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
The Mayor Places His Bets
In a rally at the Kings Theater in Brooklyn last week, Mamdani endorsed Brad Lander for NY-10, Claire Valdez for NY-7, and Darializa Avila Chevalier for NY-13. Lander and Chevalier are vying against incumbents Dan Goldman and Adriano Espaillat, while Valdez seeks to fill an open seat.
A feature from the NYT elaborates on Mamdani’s involvement:
“Mamdani has dived back into campaigning, risking his political capital in a crucial effort to propel fellow leftists to victory over longstanding Democratic figures.”
“His team aims to unseat incumbents Daniel Goldman and Adriano Espaillat, whom they consider too accommodating to corporate interests. They also hope to secure a third House seat and strengthen the democratic socialist bloc in Albany.”
If successful, Mamdani, at only 34, would solidify socialists as a significant faction in New York City politics, establishing himself as a pivotal figure capable of elevating lesser-known candidates while sidelining traditional power players. Furthermore, Mamdani’s backing extends beyond simple endorsements; his popularity enables him to deeply engage in candidate recruitment, fundraising, advertisement creation, and strategic planning. Some of his key political aides are already managing two of the campaigns, and he has pressed labor unions to support at least one of his candidates.
Amid concerns about potential political setbacks, there’s chatter among his critics:
“A string of failures could be catastrophic for the mayor, undermining his position just six months into his term and empowering adversaries.”
“His actions have already distanced him from influential Black and Latino progressives, labor unions, and the left-leaning Working Families Party — all vital allies during his journey to City Hall. Some, including Representative Nydia Velázquez, have gone so far as to publicly declare their loss of trust in him.”
The absence of Mamdani’s name on the ballot may impact the ability of the DSA to engage younger voters, a key factor in defeating Cuomo last year:
“Mamdani still faces challenges. He successfully mobilized a large young voter turnout last year, diminishing the influence of the older, more moderate electorate. But without his name on the ballot this time, early voting trends suggest an older, smaller voter base.”
“This concern prompted the local DSA to convene an emergency meeting recently to address what one leader termed the “cratering” youth vote and strategize corrective measures, according to an anonymous participant.”
Mamdani is also backing five candidates for the state legislature. This is not solely a mayoral initiative; the Democratic Socialists of America is making its own political maneuvers.
DSA Is Feeling Strong
The New York Times details the escalating influence of the DSA:
The DSA has encountered growing pains in the past. After capturing five seats in the Legislature in 2020, they struggled to capitalize on that success in 2022.
“We were ambitious and lost several close races,” recalled Valdez, who joined the DSA in 2019 and worked for earlier allies like State Senator Julia Salazar.
Some of those defeats made Valdez anxious about Mamdani entering the mayoral race in 2024, fearing he could drain resources better spent on legislative campaigns. However, after discussions with him, she grew convinced that his candidacy would be a valuable opportunity to expand the DSA’s visibility.
Since Mamdani’s DSA endorsement last October, the organization’s membership has surged from 5,900 to 14,000, according to Gustavo Gordillo, co-chair of the local DSA chapter.
What races are Mayor Mamdani and his DSA allies targeting with their political investment?
To summarize, they’re involved in two competitive races and one that seems fairly secure.
Let’s examine the safe option first.
Backing Brad Lander Over Dan Goldman
Former City Comptroller Lander, who ran against Mamdani for mayor, has received Mamdani’s endorsement following their mutual support in the city’s ranked-choice voting process.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has emerged as a key issue in the 10th District, one of the most progressive and Jewish areas in the U.S., where sentiments within the Jewish community are becoming increasingly polarized.
Both candidates identify as Jewish and liberal Zionists. However, Lander skillfully taps into evolving public opinion to critique Goldman’s pro-Israel stance, which has long been the prevailing attitude in American politics. Recent polls suggest that Lander may hold a substantial lead, although reliable polling data in New York is limited.
Ross Barkan predicts victory for Lander:
“In a few weeks, Lander is likely to win decisively and ascend to Congress as a progressive force willing to challenge the Israeli government. It’s remarkable considering Goldman isn’t a scandal-plagued incumbent, nor is he old or a weak fundraiser.”
This scenario, while predictable, marks a significant shift. Just a short time ago, Goldman seemed destined for a Senate run or an Attorney General bid, supported by a family fortune.”
The Atlantic also discussed this race but took a less favorable view, offering insights into the district:
“Goldman argues Lander is overstating their differences. He emphasized, “I am a progressive with a strong agenda, aligned with the district.” Some of Goldman’s supporters struggle to understand why progressive factions wish to oust him, as he’s not viewed as a centrist roadblock to key Democratic priorities.”
“Goldman’s primary critics admit he hasn’t committed many offensive votes. However, they leverage the race to advocate for higher standards from Democratic representatives, seeking more visibility and activism from them instead of rote party loyalty. Lander’s supporters are also contesting the concept of a safe seat becoming a guaranteed position for incumbents, provided they avoid scandal.”
New York’s Tenth District, spanning Manhattan and Brooklyn, includes some of the city’s wealthiest neighborhoods. Goldman fits that demographic, being one of the richest members in Congress.
Now, let’s explore the tight races.
Mamdani Challenges Velázquez’s Chosen Successor in NY-7
NY-7 lies across the East River from Manhattan, encompassing:
Heavily Puerto Rican neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens, along with wealthier white areas in Brooklyn.
These include Queens neighborhoods like Long Island City, Astoria, and Woodhaven, and Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Bushwick, East Williamsburg, and Williamsburg.
This district has been represented by 73-year-old Nydia Velázquez since 2013. Upon her decision to step down, she endorsed Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
Mamdani chose not to endorse Velázquez’s pick, leading to a significant rift with her, as noted by the NYT. Instead, he endorsed Claire Valdez, a first-term state assemblywoman and one of his earliest supporters, who has criticized Israel’s policies.
Velaquez, once Mamdani’s ally and supporter, expressed her displeasure publicly to the NYT:
“Mayor Mamdani should focus on governing rather than intervening in local politics. Primaries can distract from pressing work.”
“His involvement creates unnecessary conflicts among groups he needs to collaborate with as mayor.”
The conflict between Valdez and Reynoso emerges as particularly complex since they both share substantial progressive credentials. Valdez has the backing of her former union, the United Auto Workers, while Reynoso draws support from the Working Families Party and various advocacy groups, complicating their relationship with Mamdani.
Although both Valdez and Reynoso sought DSA support, only Valdez received an endorsement in January.
The Bushwick Daily elaborates on the nuances of this race:
“The Democratic primary for Nydia Velazquez’s vacant seat is set for June 23. Given the district’s Democratic leanings, this election is essentially the main event. Interestingly, Valdez and Reynoso agree on most key issues, yet the race has devolved into intense rivalry over real estate funding, Mamdani’s endorsement, and which faction of New York progressivism can claim victory.”
“Reynoso and Mamdani, once allies, have clashed over the mayor’s visits to the White House.”
Legis1 provides an in-depth analysis of the race that delves into the critical factors of demographics and finances:
“Velázquez’s departure opens a seat historically designed for Puerto Rican representation, but demographic shifts have occurred, with white non-Hispanic residents now constituting a plurality.”
“The financial stakes are also critical. Valdez has directly targeted Reynoso’s acceptance of more than $100,000 in real estate contributions, questioning the integrity of his promises during his borough president run. Conversely, Valdez has positioned herself as a true champion for tenant rights, raising substantial funds primarily from individual donors.”
Next, we will examine the contentious race.
Establishment Fights Back in Harlem and the Bronx
New York’s 13th Congressional District spans Upper Manhattan and the Bronx. As a strong Democratic area, its primary results will be crucial, similar to other districts where Mamdani has endorsed candidates.
The Guardian offers additional insights regarding the race and the incumbent:
“Adriano Espaillat has represented the 13th district since 2017, becoming its first Dominican American and formerly undocumented immigrant member of Congress. This district is home to a large Afro-Latino population situated in historic areas like Harlem and Washington Heights.”
“Darializa Avila Chevalier, who previously organized for Mamdani during his mayoral campaign, aims to unseat Espaillat, criticizing his ties to corporate interests and insufficient support for working-class families.”
The NYT first introduced Chevalier as a challenger in the race, highlighting the role of Justice Democrats in boosting her profile:
“Ms. Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist backed by Mayor Mamdani, seeks to challenge Representative Espaillat by advocating for the needs of the district’s working families.”
Yet, as the campaign progresses, the media has scrutinized Chevalier’s past, highlighting her controversial social media activity:
“Critics claim she has deleted numerous posts, including unflattering comments about establishment Democrats, and displayed unrefined perspectives on various issues.”
Ironically, while focusing on Chevalier’s online past, it’s Espaillat’s supporters engaging in disconcerting racial undertones during the campaign.
Despite both candidates sharing Dominican roots, Espaillat’s backers have resorted to using derogatory terms to undermine Chevalier:
Spamming that racist nonsense. Espaillat is spreading lies about her identity to stoke racial hatred because he thinks there’s something wrong with being Haitian. He pulled this same divisive racist nonsense against Rangel…
— Jennifer English Stan Account (Iris) ✪🇵🇸 (@WokeMaelle) June 18, 2026
The NYT has also examined this race, indicating that Mamdani’s endorsement of Chevalier can be perceived as a betrayal:
“Espaillat, who holds significant influence within the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, faces a challenge from Chevalier, whose campaign reflects a generational clash within the party.”
As we approach the primaries, it remains to be seen whether Mayor Mamdani’s strategic endorsements will yield successful outcomes for the candidates he champions.
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