Mamdani-backed candidates sweep New York primaries, ousting two incumbents
Three candidates endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani won their primary elections, unseating two Democratic incumbents.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani demonstrated significant political influence Tuesday as all three of his endorsed congressional candidates secured victories in the state's primary elections, paving their way to the November general election and unseating two incumbent Democratic representatives.
The results underscore Mamdani's growing sway in state politics, with his chosen candidates successfully navigating competitive races.
In New York's 7th Congressional District, state Assemblywoman Claire Valdez, backed by Mamdani, is projected to win against Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. Similarly, former city comptroller Brad Lander, another candidate supported by the mayor, is projected to defeat incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman in the 10th District. The 13th District saw community advocate Darializa Avila Chevalier, endorsed by Mamdani, win over incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat.
These victories for Mamdani's slate have notable implications for the Democratic Party's direction and the balance of power in Congress. The unseating of two established incumbents suggests a shift in voter sentiment and a successful mobilization of Mamdani's supporters.
Beyond the races directly influenced by Mayor Mamdani, other significant contests unfolded across New York. In the upstate 21st District, businessman Anthony Constantino, who previously gained attention for a large "Vote for Trump" sign, is projected to be the Republican nominee. His candidacy highlights a division within the state's Republican Party, as he was supported by former President Donald Trump, while the New York Republican State Committee chair backed a different candidate. Constantino will face Democratic nominee Blake Gendebien.
In a race considered crucial for potential control of Congress, former National Security Council Counterterrorism Director Cait Conley is projected to win the Democratic primary in the 17th District, setting up a contest against Republican Rep. Mike Lawler.
Maryland also held its primaries, with state Delegate Adrian Boafo projected to win the Democratic nomination for the 5th Congressional District, succeeding retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer. Boafo received endorsements from Hoyer himself, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks.
Governor Wes Moore is also projected to win the Democratic primary for governor in Maryland, facing a rematch against state Del. Dan Cox in November. Moore is frequently mentioned as a potential contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination.
These primary results offer a snapshot of the political landscape heading into the general election, with key races in New York and Maryland potentially shaping the composition of Congress.
This article was written by AI based on publicly available news reporting. Original reporting by the linked source.
