Clean sweep for Mamdani-backed candidates in New York’s Democratic primary

US congressman Dan Goldman was defeated in the New York primary, creating a wide gap between the candidates supported by New York’s democratic socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who is trying to move the Democratic Party to the left.

Goldman was defeated by progressive challenger Brad Lander in New York’s 10th congressional district in a contest that revealed the party’s divisions over the Israel-Gaza war.

Lander accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Goldman, who was in office for two terms, was supported by pro-Israel groups.

Two other candidates, both democratic socialists backed by Mamdani, won their primaries in America’s largest city on Tuesday with support from the party’s left wing.

Councilwoman Claire Valdez unseated Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in the 7th district.

Darializa Avila Chevalier, a doctoral student at Columbia University who participated in pro-Palestinian protests, won her race in New York’s 13th district.

He unseated Adriano Espaillat, who led the district for five terms and was chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, a body that advocates for legislation and resources for Hispanic Americans.

Lander, who was also backed by Democratic socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, easily defeated Goldman 65.7% to 34.1% with most votes counted.

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The former New York City comptroller’s bid for Goldman, who was first elected to Congress in 2022, was seen as a test of Mamdani’s political clout.

According to the BBC’s US news partner CBS, Goldman said he called Lander to congratulate him.

“Tonight, the voters of the 10th District have spoken. Even though this is not the outcome I worked so hard for, I respect their decision,” Goldman said.

US President Donald Trump called Goldman “weak and pathetic” after the race and said the congressman “lost, BIG!”