New York Congressional Primaries Test Progressive Strength

New York’s congressional candidates are making their final push as the primary election looms. The expanding influence of the progressive left is challenging the establishment Democrats. These races are indicative of Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s political influence. They assess whether he can sustain the enthusiasm sparked last year to transform the city’s congressional lineup.

Mamdani is backing three House candidates. He has actively participated in their campaigns with videos and a rally with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, advocating for a Democratic Party with a strong backbone.

In another prominent race, Jack Schlossberg, grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, seeks a Congressional seat in Manhattan. He relies on his family’s legacy and social media following. Facing him are Alex Bores, a state Assembly member with AI regulation proposals supported by Silicon Valley, and Micah Lasher, another Assembly member with solid New York government ties. George Conway, known for his critiques of President Trump, is also in the race.

Schlossberg gathered supporters with David Letterman; he has endorsement from his mother, Caroline Kennedy. Lasher engaged with voters on the ground. Bores released an ad on AI, highlighting the tech industry’s financial opposition to him. Mamdani remains focused on other congressional races and has not endorsed anyone in this contest.

Darializa Avila Chevalier, one of Mamdani’s supported candidates, challenges U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat in a district covering northern Manhattan and part of the Bronx. Espaillat criticizes Avila Chevalier over past social media posts. She apologized for an offensive post about former Vice President Kamala Harris during a recent debate.

Former city Comptroller Brad Lander, endorsed by Mamdani, opposes U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman. Lander aims to use his mayoral alliance to his advantage, while Goldman emphasizes his congressional achievements.

Mamdani also supports Claire Valdez, a former state Assembly colleague, in her challenge against Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. Both candidates are progressives, but Valdez presents herself as a potential Mamdani ally in Washington.