A new wave of political tension is brewing within the Democratic Party as progressive activists aligned with Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are reportedly considering primary challenges against several prominent House Democrats in New York City — including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
The internal clash comes on the heels of Mamdani’s surprising victory in the city’s recent Democratic mayoral primary, where he defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo and nine other contenders. Mamdani’s rise marks a turning point for democratic socialists in the city and signals a broader ideological shift gaining momentum within the party’s base.
With Mamdani’s win fueling enthusiasm, DSA leaders have publicly hinted at a more aggressive electoral strategy for 2026, targeting establishment Democrats whom they see as out of touch with grassroots movements. Among the names reportedly being discussed for challenge: Reps. Jerry Nadler, Dan Goldman, Ritchie Torres, and Yvette Clarke — all of whom hold seats in districts across NYC.
“This movement is bigger than one election,” said a DSA spokesperson in a recent statement. “We’re building power from the ground up, and the energy around Mamdani’s campaign is just the beginning.”
The push for insurgent candidates has drawn sharp responses from the Democratic establishment. A senior advisor to Rep. Jeffries warned that any attempt to challenge the House Minority Leader would be met with a “forceful and unrelenting” counter-campaign. Jeffries, who succeeded Nancy Pelosi as Democratic leader, remains a powerful figure in Congress and a key voice for centrist Democrats.
Still, some on the city’s left argue that Jeffries represents a status quo that no longer reflects the priorities of younger, more progressive voters.
“There’s a leadership vacuum, and groups like DSA are stepping in to fill it,” said Gustavo Gordillo, co-chair of NYC-DSA. “We’re organizing to create a more just and equitable future — one that includes housing for all, climate action, and democratic control of our institutions.”
Democratic Socialist state Senator Jabari Brisport echoed similar sentiments, stating that Jeffries has grown increasingly distant from the needs of working-class communities in Brooklyn.
While it remains to be seen whether serious challengers will emerge, the post-Mamdani political landscape in New York is already reshaping expectations for the next election cycle — and putting the Democratic Party’s internal divides on full display.