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Mamdani-Endorsed Congressional Candidates Triumph in Primaries

June 30, 2026

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani significantly expanded his political influence last week after all three of his endorsed Democratic congressional candidates prevailed in New York's primary elections, including two victories over incumbent members of Congress. 

Why it matters: The results underscore the growing strength of the city's progressive wing and could have meaningful implications for the expansion of the DSA (Democratic Socialists of America) representation in Congress. 

• The highest-profile upset came in Manhattan and Brooklyn, where New York City Comptroller Brad Lander defeated Rep. Dan Goldman. 
• In Brooklyn's open 7th Congressional District, State Assembly member Claire Valdez secured the Democratic nomination. 
• While in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, Darializa Avila Chevalier unseated five-term Rep. Adriano Espaillat in another surprise. 

In each race, Mamdani's endorsement was viewed as a significant asset for candidates running on affordability, housing, and progressive economic platforms. The victories represent an early test of Mamdani's political capital following his election as mayor. 

The bottom line: The growth of this wing of the party could cause headaches for Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) if the Democrats are to retake control of the House. 

• Jeffries will have to contest with a larger group of progressives dubbed “the Squad 2.0” who will be eager to push their policy positions and grow their influence after endorsements from Mamdani and national political recognition.
• The current “Squad” in Congress stands at seven members.
  

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