Dominican-born Congressman Espaillat rules out independent bid, vows to 'save' Democratic Party

U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat has definitively dismissed the possibility of seeking re-election as an independent candidate in the upcoming New York elections. Espaillat, a prominent Democrat of Dominican origin, affirmed his unwavering loyalty to the party, emphasizing the need to rally and "save the Democratic Party" as it navigates a more progressive trajectory.

“

No, that is not proceeding. I am a Democrat through and through, I remain in my party. We even have to save the Democratic Party.

"No, that is not proceeding. I am a Democrat through and through, I remain in my party. We even have to save the Democratic Party," stated the veteran politician, who hails from Santiago de los Caballeros. His remarks were made in response to media inquiries about potentially running outside the party that has supported his congressional career.

Espaillat's call to preserve the party's core comes at a time of significant internal division between its moderate and progressive factions. This internal tension is playing out as the party prepares for a potential realignment of the Congress. The congressman's stance is particularly noteworthy following his defeat in the Democratic primaries held in June.

“

I am an activist in the depths of my heart, and activists are like great generals: they do not retire. So, we are now returning to the streets, returning to the community because, as you all know, I used to spend four or five days in Washington (...), but now I will be in the heart of the community every day.

He lost his bid for a fifth term to Darializa Ávila, also of Dominican descent, who secured the backing of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Espaillat's loss was considered one of the most surprising outcomes of that election cycle, underscoring the growing influence of the progressive wing within the Democratic Party, with Mamdani emerging as a key figure in New York politics. Following his primary defeat, Espaillat had initially announced his retirement from public life after three decades of service to communities in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, but has since indicated a return to activism.

“

So there is much Adriano for a long time.