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Velázquez Slams Mamdani for Endorsing Rival in Congress Race

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), retiring Congresswoman, criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani for endorsing Claire Valdez over Velázquez's chosen successor, Antonio Reynoso, for New York's 7th Congressional District.
Mamdani said Velázquez's concerns were noted, and the two remain aligned as progressives who share values.
Velázquez endorsed Rana Abdelhamid for Mamdani's open Assembly seat, while Mamdani supported Diana Moreno.

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Story summary

Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), retiring Congresswoman, criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani for endorsing Claire Valdez over Velázquez's chosen successor, Antonio Reynoso, for New York's 7th Congressional District.
Mamdani said Velázquez's concerns were noted, and the two remain aligned as progressives who share values.
Velázquez endorsed Rana Abdelhamid for Mamdani's open Assembly seat, while Mamdani supported Diana Moreno.