NYC Mayor Mamdani’s Influence Tested in Congressional Primaries
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) member, faces a pivotal test as candidates he endorsed navigate the congressional primaries. His mayoral win in 2025 marked a significant moment for the political left. Employing his political clout, Mamdani aims to position progressives and socialists for congressional seats, potentially elevating his status and strengthening the socialist movement in New York.
Which Candidates Has Mamdani Endorsed?
Mamdani backed candidates running against two New York City incumbents. In the 10th District, he endorsed former City Comptroller Brad Lander over Representative Dan Goldman. In the 13th District, organizer Darializa Avila Chevalier gained his support against Representative Adriano Espaillat. Additionally, in the open race of the 7th District, Mamdani backed Assemblymember Claire Valdez against Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. Both Avila Chevalier and Valdez are DSA members, unlike Lander.
A victory for Mamdani’s candidates would signal an expansion of the progressive influence in New York’s congressional seats. However, their failure could indicate reluctance among New Yorkers to fully embrace Mamdani’s political style.
Valdez vs. Reynoso in the 7th District
With Representative Nydia Velázquez not seeking reelection, the 7th District is open to contest. This district covers parts of Brooklyn and Queens, known for its progressive leanings. Claire Valdez joined politics in 2024, while Antonio Reynoso served on the city council before becoming borough president. Mamdani and Senator Bernie Sanders support Valdez, while Reynoso has backing from Velázquez and the Working Families Party.
An Emerson College poll placed Valdez at 23 percent and Reynoso at 21 percent support, with 43 percent of voters undecided. Prediction markets favor Valdez, giving her an 83 percent chance of winning.
Mamdani’s endorsement drew criticism from Velázquez, who mentioned that primaries can be distracting, potentially causing rifts within the party.
Lander vs. Goldman in the 10th District
Mamdani, an early ally of Lander, has consistently backed him against Dan Goldman, a representative since 2022. The 10th District, which favored Mamdani in his mayoral run, may not align with Goldman’s less progressive stance. Polling results suggest Lander’s strong prospects, with an Emerson College poll showing 57 percent support for Lander compared to Goldman’s 23 percent.
Prediction markets also heavily favor Lander, indicating his likely victory. This district spans parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Avila Chevalier vs. Espaillat in the 13th District
Running in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, Darializa Avila Chevalier challenges incumbent Espaillat. While she criticizes Espaillat for lacking progressive depth, her past social media remarks have caused concern. A Data for Progress poll showed Avila Chevalier leading with 39 percent versus Espaillat’s 35 percent. However, prediction markets slightly favor Espaillat with a winning probability around 64 percent.
Mamdani vs. the Establishment
The NYC Mayor remains distant from New York City’s political elite, including figures like Hakeem Jeffries, who endorsed Mamdani’s opponents. Historical tensions between DSA and the establishment center around outsider versus insider dynamics. Mamdani’s supporters view the establishment as resisting change for years.
Highlighting his campaign, Mamdani stated the importance of expecting and demanding more from the Democratic Party.
Potential Growth of DSA in 2026 Midterms
The DSA may expand its influence amidst dissatisfaction with the former Trump administration. Recently, a DSA member achieved a triumph in Washington, D.C.’s mayoral primary, while others anticipate securing seats in various districts across the U.S.