Mamdani-backed challengers topple Democratic insiders in stunning New York upsets

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s progressive allies achieved significant victories in Tuesday's Democratic congressional primaries, unseating two sitting House members.

Darializa Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist endorsed by Mamdani, defeated five-term incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

Brad Lander, a progressive closely aligned with Mamdani’s movement, also defeated two-term Congressman Rep. Dan Goldman in another key primary upset.

These victories represent a substantial political triumph for Mamdani and his growing movement, challenging the Democratic establishment and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

The successful progressive candidates advocate for policies such as abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, increasing taxes on wealthy Americans, and adopting a more critical stance on Israel's military actions in Gaza.