What to watch in Tuesday’s NY elections: Israel, AIPAC and genocide front and center

New York's primary elections on Tuesday are poised to highlight the deep divisions within the Democratic Party over the Israel-Gaza conflict, with issues of pro-Palestinian activism and antisemitism taking center stage. Several congressional races, particularly in New York City, are expected to serve as barometers for voter sentiment on these contentious topics.

The most closely watched contest is the open seat in NY-12, the most Jewish congressional district in the United States. This district, covering parts of Manhattan's Upper West and East Sides and midtown, is a Democratic stronghold. Four candidates are vying for the nomination: Micah Lasher and Alex Bores, both members of the State Assembly, Jack Schlossberg, and George Conway. Lasher and Bores are leading in polls, presenting similar pro-Israel, anti-Netanyahu platforms, and both have supported state-level legislation to combat antisemitism. Lasher has secured support from the district's establishment, including retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler, while Bores has built a coalition that includes both pro-Israel moderates and progressive groups critical of Israel.

In NY-10, incumbent Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman faces a challenge from former City Comptroller Brad Lander. Lander, a prominent Jewish ally of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has focused his campaign on Goldman's endorsement from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a pro-Israel lobbying group that has become a target for progressive criticism. Goldman, in turn, has emphasized his endorsements from both AIPAC and other mainstream Democratic figures.

Beyond the city, a Democratic primary in NY-17 will determine who challenges Republican Congressman Mike Lawler for the swing seat. The election results will offer a snapshot of how Democratic voters are navigating the complex landscape of support for Israel, criticism of its government's actions, and the ongoing debate surrounding antisemitism and its definition in political discourse.