New York voters participated in primaries on June 23, with significant implications for the Democratic Party. All 26 congressional seats in New York will be contested in November, but the focus is on Democratic primaries in New York City, where Mayor Zohran Mamdani is supporting progressive candidates.
The primaries highlight ideological divides within the Democratic Party, with socialists and progressive activists challenging establishment Democrats. Democrats currently hold 19 of the 26 congressional seats in New York.
Mamdani's influence is notable as he backs progressive candidates, framing several races as tests for the strength of the socialist movement in New York. He recently promoted his chosen candidates through a basketball-themed ad, urging voter participation.
In New York's 12th Congressional District, the retirement of Rep. Jerrold Nadler has opened a competitive race. State Assemblyman Micah Lasher, endorsed by Nadler, is a leading candidate, along with Alex Bores, Jack Schlossberg, and George Conway III, who has switched parties to run.
Incumbent Rep. Daniel Goldman faces a challenge from former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who has criticized Goldman’s support for Israel amid ongoing party divisions. Lander previously ran for mayor and has aligned with Mamdani.
In the 7th Congressional District, the retirement of Rep. Nydia Velázquez has led to a contest between Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Assemblywoman Claire Valdez, who is backed by Mamdani.
Rep. Adriano Espaillat is also facing a primary challenge from activist Darializa Avila Chevalier, who has criticized Espaillat's positions on Israel and received Mamdani's endorsement.
In the Hudson Valley, Democrats are targeting Rep. Mike Lawler, with candidates Cait Conley and Beth Davidson emerging in the primary. Meanwhile, in northern New York, Republicans are competing to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik, with Anthony Constantino gaining favor after receiving Trump's endorsement.