Moderate Dems. brace for internal war after Mamdani-backed candiates win NYC primaries

Moderate Democrats are bracing for internal party conflict following the victories of leftist candidates in recent New York City primaries. Three progressive candidates, Darializa Avila Chevalier, state Rep. Claire Valdez, and former NYC comptroller Brad Lander, won seats in the 13th, 10th, and 7th districts, respectively. All were endorsed by NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and two of them support anti-Israel measures. These candidates are projected to win their general election races in November.

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I think a democratic socialist can get elected anywhere across this country for any position.

The victories are part of a larger trend, with six other leftists winning primaries across the country and another six actively challenging moderate Democratic incumbents. If all these candidates succeed, the 21st century could see the largest leftist bloc in Congress. This surge has led some analysts and party members to anticipate an internal "civil war" within the Democratic Party.

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I think we are seeing a hunger that is not just felt by New Yorkers, but frankly by Americans from coast to coast, for a new kind of politics, one that puts working people at the heart of it.

Mayor Mamdani expressed optimism, telling ABC News that "a democratic socialist can get elected anywhere across this country for any position." He believes there is a nationwide "hunger for a new kind of politics, one that puts working people at the heart of it." Similarly, Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed noted that "folks are sick and tired of being sick and tired," suggesting a widespread desire for change.

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I'm so excited that these incredible soon-to-be congress members will be helping to lead the fight across the country on making sure that working people are right there where they should be, which is the heart of the conversation.

Progressive Rep. Delia Ramirez of Illinois told Axios that these election results demonstrate Democratic voters' true sentiments, indicating a rejection of "loyalty to the establishment." She emphasized the Congressional Progressive Caucus's responsibility to advocate for working people. However, the Democratic establishment worries that the success of these progressive candidates, particularly in key states like Michigan, could jeopardize the party's chances against Republicans in the upcoming elections, as Republicans may "weaponize the craziest ideas of these candidates against mainstream Democrats."

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It’s happening in New York, it’s happening in Michigan. I think we’re seeing it happen across the country now, that folks are sick and tired of being sick and tired.