NEW YORK — Mayor Zohran Mamdani-backed candidates secured sweeping victories in New York City's Democratic congressional primaries on Tuesday, with two challengers defeating incumbent lawmakers.
Darializa Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist, defeated Rep. Adriano Espaillat in the 13th District. Former City Comptroller Brad Lander ousted Rep. Dan Goldman in the 10th District. In the 7th District, Claire Valdez prevailed over Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
The results represent a significant boost for progressive forces in the city, where Mamdani, a democratic socialist, has emerged as a key figure since his election as mayor. All three candidates he endorsed advanced to the general election in deeply Democratic districts, effectively ensuring their victories in November.
Mamdani celebrated the outcomes with the candidates at an event following the polls. The wins highlight divisions within the Democratic Party, with challengers emphasizing progressive priorities including economic policies and criticism of establishment approaches.
Incumbents Espaillat and Goldman, backed by elements of the party leadership, were unable to hold off the challenges. Details on final vote margins and turnout remained under review as of Wednesday, though projections from multiple outlets confirmed the results.
The primaries drew attention as a potential indicator of broader trends for Democrats. Mamdani's involvement marked an aggressive push to support allies aiming to shift the party leftward.
"These victories show the strength of our coalition," Mamdani said in remarks after the results, according to local reports. He has positioned the wins as part of efforts to address key issues facing working New Yorkers.
Party officials offered limited immediate reaction. Some establishment figures expressed concerns about the direction, while progressive groups hailed the outcomes as a mandate for bolder policies.
As of Wednesday, the candidates were preparing for the general election against Republican opponents in districts where Democrats hold strong advantages. No further major challenges to the primary results have been reported.
