Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Push to Redefine New York’s Democratic Delegation

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, elected in 2025, endorsed three challengers for New York’s June 2026 Democratic primary for U.S. House seats. He backed public defender Darializa Avila Chevalier (13th District), Queens assemblywoman Claire Valdez (7th District) and former comptroller Brad Lander (10th District). The endorsements were announced at a rally with Senator Bernie Sanders.

The Guardian

Mamdani’s 2025 win over Governor Andrew Cuomo was powered by the Democratic Socialists of America, the Working Families Party and labor unions. As mayor, he is now applying that momentum to congressional races, targeting incumbents he says are tied to corporate donors and the pro-Israel lobby.

New York Times

Citywide poverty was 26 % in 2024, with 35 % of children in the 13th District in poverty. A March internal poll showed Espaillat leading Avila Chevalier 42 %-28 %; a June Data for Progress poll reversed the lead to 39 %-35 %. About 100,000 Mamdani volunteers are mobilized for the three races.

The Guardian

If the endorsed slate wins, the DSA would control three House seats, giving progressives leverage over issues such as Israel aid, budget priorities, universal health care and rent protection. The primaries also test whether a left-wing platform can displace entrenched incumbents in a traditionally centrist state.

New York Times

Hakeem Jeffries campaigned in Manhattan for Espaillat, saying the race is a collective effort to improve lives in the city and the country. Rep. Nydia Velázquez warned Mamdani that “honeymoons are short, and people need to pay attention to the work at hand.” Bernie Sanders co-hosted a rally with Mamdani, calling the endorsed candidates “incredible partners” in the fight for affordability.

Vox

Velázquez withdrew her trust in Mamdani and supported incumbent opponents. Pro-Israel groups called Espaillat a “price-tag” candidate for his Israel funding. The New York Post reported Avila Chevalier’s inflammatory posts; Mamdani said he was unaware before endorsing her. Labor unions and the Working Families Party warned his aggressive strategy could alienate broader progressive constituencies.

The Guardian

Internal polls disagree on the 13th District lead, with one favoring Espaillat and another showing Avila Chevalier ahead. Espaillat’s campaign declined comment on alleged AIPAC support, and Mamdani did not disclose his own ballot choices.

The Guardian

• “We also have to share our values and share our fight and share a commitment to winning for our people.” — Darializa Avila Chevalier, candidate

Vox

• “Budgets are moral documents. They tell us exactly what we prioritize.” — Darializa Avila Chevalier, candidate

Vox

• “I think Darializa is the perfect candidate for the race.” — Zohran Mamdani, mayor

New York Post

• “We’re all committed to doing what’s necessary to make life better for the people of this city and for the people of the country,” — Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic leader

New York Times

Early voting began June 13; the primary is on June 24. Results will reveal whether the DSA-backed slate secures three seats.

New York Times