Mamdani‑Backed Candidates Sweep NYC Democratic Primaries

Wed Jun 24 2026 08:51:02 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s endorsed candidates win primaries, marking a leftward shift in the Democratic Party amid Israel‑Gaza tensions.

In a dramatic shift, Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s endorsed trio toppled long‑time incumbents, with Brad Lander decisively defeating Congressman Dan Goldman in the 10th District. The victories underscore a growing pro‑Palestinian stance within the local Democratic landscape, forcing a reevaluation by national party leaders. Meanwhile, assemblyman Claire Valdez and doctoral student Darializa Avila Chevalier unseated their opponents in the 7th and 13th Districts respectively, cementing a progressive wave. The results raise questions about the Democratic Party’s electoral appeal as the 2026 midterms approach.

Primary Victory at Full Speed Ahead

In New York’s 10th Congressional District, progressive challenger Brad Lander, backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Senator Bernie Sanders, shattered the incumbency of Dan Goldman with a 65.7% to 34.1% landslide. Lander’s campaign highlighted Israel’s military conduct in Gaza, labeling it “genocide” and resonating with voters increasingly critical of pro‑Israel stances.

The sweep didn’t stop there. Assemblywoman Claire Valdez overturned Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in the 7th District, while doctoral student Darializa Avila Chevalier, active in pro‑Palestinian protests, took the 13th District from long‑time incumbent Adriano Espaillat. These victories collectively signal a left‑leaning realignment in New York’s Democratic politics.

Mamdani celebrated her endorsed candidates’ wins, describing Chevalier as “a person of clarity, of conscience and of conviction” and urging parties to prioritize working people. However, national Reuters and CNN highlighted the risks, noting that establishment Democrats fear the progressive candidates may not pull swing voters in the November midterms.

Delegates within the National Democratic Party are wary of the leftward push. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries remarked that “a handful of primaries can’t reshape who we are as House Democrats.” The endorsements also underscore a broader policy agenda, with the trio pledging to abolish ICE, tax the wealthy and challenge Israel’s policies.

The election impacts national discourse. Congressman Goldman, an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, expressed disappointment, respecting the voters’ decision while challenging the party’s direction. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump disparaged Goldman, calling him “weak and pathetic” post‑result, further inflaming partisan tensions.