Mamdani’s endorsements put spotlight on key Democratic primaries across NYC
New Yorkers will head to the polls Tuesday for the primary, with several high‑profile congressional races drawing heightened attention as Mayor Zohran Mamdani throws his support behind a slate of progressive candidates.
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New Yorkers will head to the polls on Tuesday for the state primary.
Several high‑profile congressional races are drawing heightened attention as Mayor Zohran Mamdani throws his support behind a slate of progressive candidates.
Just one year after Mamdani stunned New York’s political landscape by defeating former Gov. Andrew Cuomo for the Democratic mayoral nomination, the mayor is now testing whether his influence can help propel his preferred candidates, many aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America, into seats in Washington.
Mamdani has been a visible presence on the campaign trail in recent days, appearing at rallies and events with Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders.
“I’m going to spend today and tomorrow doing everything I can to help them," Mamdani said.
NY‑10: Goldman Faces Progressive Challenge
In New York’s 10th Congressional District, incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman is facing one of the toughest challenges of his career. Goldman, a two‑term Democrat known for helping lead the first impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump and for his strong support of Israel’s security, is losing some progressive backing to former City Comptroller Brad Lander.
Lander, a former mayoral candidate who is endorsed by the Working Families Party and also secured Mamdani’s endorsement, giving the challenger a boost in a district where progressive turnout could be decisive.
NY‑13: Espaillat Confronts a Serious Primary Fight
Uptown in NY‑13, which covers Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, Rep. Adriano Espaillat is facing a primary challenge from Darializa Avila Chevalier, a Democratic Socialist and public defense investigator.
Espaillat has consolidated support from Gov. Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and major labor unions. But Mamdani has been campaigning aggressively for Avila Chevalier, who has been active in organizing protests against the war in Gaza.
NY‑7: Open Seat Sparks Three‑Way Contest
With longtime Rep. Nydia Velázquez retiring, the open seat in NY‑7 has become one of the most competitive races of the cycle. Velázquez is backing Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
He faces City Councilmember Julie Won, the first Korean American elected to the Council, running on a “lifetime of care” platform and Assemblymember Claire Valdez, a first‑term lawmaker, union organizer, and DSA member endorsed by Mamdani.
What’s at Stake
Mamdani has endorsed eight candidates across congressional and state legislative races. But in his own district, including NY‑12, he has declined to reveal his personal vote, saying only that it is “between him and the ballot.”
When asked how many of his endorsed candidates would need to win for him to claim political momentum, Mamdani did not offer a number. The Democratic primary will determine whether the mayor’s political brand, and the progressive movement he champions, can reshape New York’s representation in Washington.
The primary election is Tuesday, June 23.
