House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and several prominent Black elected officials are closing ranks around Rep. Adriano Espaillat as the veteran congressman faces a primary challenge from Democratic Socialist-backed candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier.
The race for New York’s 13th Congressional District has become a proxy battle between establishment Democrats and the progressive movement associated with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has endorsed Chevalier’s insurgent campaign.
At an endorsement event held Saturday at Manhattan’s Edison Hotel, Jeffries made clear where he stands.
“The mayor and I strongly disagree as it relates to the congressional races, particularly the endorsement that was made against Congressman Adriano Espaillat,” Jeffries said.
“We are fully and squarely behind him, and we are going to make sure we do everything we can to ensure he is re-elected.”
The public disagreement highlights growing tensions within New York Democratic politics as progressive activists seek to challenge longtime incumbents while party leadership works to protect experienced lawmakers with deep roots in their communities.
Jeffries, who would be positioned to become the first Black Speaker of the House if Democrats regain control of Congress, framed the election as part of a larger conversation about neighborhood change and political representation.
“Our communities are facing gentrification in the north and Jim Crow-like tactics in the South,” Jeffries said.
He argued that residents who helped stabilize and rebuild neighborhoods during difficult decades should not be pushed aside as communities become more desirable and economically successful.
The endorsement event also showcased strong support for Espaillat from influential Harlem leaders whose districts overlap with the congressional seat. State Sen. Cordell Cleare, Assemblymembers Al Taylor and Jordan Wright, and New York City Councilman Yusef Salaam all appeared alongside the congressman.
Their presence could prove significant in a district where turnout among older Black voters may play a major role in determining the outcome. Political observers have noted that Chevalier’s campaign has attracted support from younger progressive voters, while Espaillat continues to draw backing from long-established political networks throughout Harlem and northern Manhattan.
The district includes Harlem, East Harlem, Washington Heights, Inwood, Morningside Heights, and portions of the western Bronx.
Cleare emphasized the importance of experience and local ties.
“Adriano Espaillat is the man for the job. We don’t need outsiders,” she said.
The race has also brought renewed focus to the longstanding political alliance between Black and Latino communities in Upper Manhattan. Supporters of Espaillat repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining that coalition.
Now serving as chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Espaillat has become one of the most prominent Latino members of Congress. During the event, he reflected on his own journey as a Dominican immigrant and his admiration for Harlem political legend Adam Clayton Powell.
“I’m no stranger to Harlem,” Espaillat said, recalling how he learned English by reading newspapers and following local politics.
The congressman also underscored his support for Jeffries’ leadership. During a recent debate, Espaillat said he would “absolutely” support Jeffries for Speaker of the House should Democrats regain the majority. Chevalier, by contrast, said she would consult with constituents before making such a decision.
Additional support for Espaillat came from Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke and Rep. Gregory Meeks, both of whom joined the endorsement effort.
