NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Endorses Darializa Avila Chevalier for Congress, Sparking Backlash
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has officially endorsed progressive activist Darializa Avila Chevalier for the upcoming House of Representatives election in the 13th congressional district. Speaking on the program *The Briefing*, the mayor, a prominent democratic socialist, emphasized an urgent need to completely revitalize the ranks of the American Congress. With this move, Mamdani directly challenges veteran politician and incumbent Congressman Adriano Espaillat.
The endorsement quickly ignited a major political scandal, drawing sharp condemnation from Jewish communities and Israeli politicians. The intense backlash stems from Chevalier’s recent background as a coordinator for anti-Israel protests and pro-Palestinian encampments at Columbia University. Furthermore, on October 8, 2023, just one day after the deadly attacks on southern Israel, the activist attended a New York rally where demonstrators openly cheered terrorist actions.
Major Jewish organizations declared the political promotion of candidates who showed solidarity with those celebrating the “Black Saturday” atrocities completely unacceptable. Meanwhile, Congressman Adriano Espaillat, backed heavily by the pro-Israel lobby AIPAC, expressed full confidence in his campaign. The incumbent legislator stated he is ready to decisively defend his seat, leaving the ultimate decision in this high-profile standoff to the voters.
