Mamdani-backed candidates sweep Democratic primaries, reshaping NYC politics

In a decisive primary sweep on Tuesday, three candidates endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani won Democratic congressional primaries, signaling the growing strength of the coalition that propelled Mamdani to an upset mayoral victory last year. The results toppled some of the city’s most established political figures and highlighted deep divisions within the party over ideology, Israel policy, and immigration. Former New York City comptroller Brad Lander defeated two-term Congressman Dan Goldman in the 10th Congressional District; state lawmaker Claire Valdez won in the 7th district covering Queens and Brooklyn; and community organizer and graduate student Darializa Avila Chevalier unseated incumbent Adriano Espaillat in the 13th district.

The primaries were widely seen as a test of Mamdani’s political strength less than a year into his tenure. By backing candidates who share his progressive views, he strained relationships with longtime Democratic leaders and took a gamble that appears to have paid off. The victories are likely to unsettle opponents, including wealthy residents angered by his tax policies and some Jewish voters upset by his criticism of Israel. The wins for Valdez and Avila Chevalier represent further gains for the Democratic Socialists of America, who are capitalizing on voter discontent over rising rents, costly childcare, and stagnant wages.