Jeffries Addresses DSA Support and Collaborations with Mamdani

On Monday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated that he has not conferred with Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani concerning the Democratic Socialists of America’s decision not to back a primary opponent.

When questioned about the possibility of an agreement with DSA member Mamdani, Jeffries (D-Brooklyn) replied, “No. Our priority is to ensure that the next mayor focuses on both affordability and public safety policies.”

Just last week, Mamdani, a councilman from Queens, urged his colleagues in a private meeting not to support Brooklyn City Councilman Chi O-Se’s bid for backing in his campaign against the top House Democrat.

Key groups within DSA’s local chapter then voted narrowly against backing Mr. Océ’s challenge to the Democratic primary.

A source mentioned that Mamdani’s campaign aimed to mitigate potential backlash from minority leaders by leaking stories about the mayoral race designed to deter the mayor-elect from facing a tough primary.

Representatives for Mamdani have not yet replied to requests for comments.

Meanwhile, Jeffries convened a press conference on Monday in Bedford-Stuyvesant, his Congressional District, focusing on food insecurity, which is also a central issue in Mamdani’s campaign regarding affordability.

However, Jeffries noted he hadn’t discussed Mamdani’s commitment to open city-run grocery stores in each ward, intended to provide affordable food to those in need.

“I’m looking forward to chatting with him. We converse often, and I’m eager to discuss that specific policy,” he added, acknowledging Mamdani’s emphasis on broader affordability concerns.

The moderate lawmaker, who had shown only tepid support for Mamdani until just before the election, sidestepped questions about his concerns regarding the proposed grocery store initiative.

“In general, I believe Mayor-elect Mamdani is concentrating on affordability issues, but as he transitions from his previous role, it’s crucial for him to consider how we can collaborate at city, state, and federal levels to ensure his policies are realized,” he stated.

Previously reported, Océ’s campaign has focused on contrasting federal military spending for Israel with necessary investments in the district.

Without naming Océ directly, City Councilwoman Stephanie Zinnerman from Bed-Stuy noted to Jeffries during the event that “nobody can do your job,” emphasizing the significant federal funds received in the district.

“It’s challenging to come to work daily, fighting for people to have the morality, decency, resources, and healthcare needed for putting food on the table, securing good jobs, and feeding their families,” she expressed.

Jeffries went on to commend Mamdani for retaining Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who will lead the NYPD in the new administration.

“I think this decision is beneficial for my community, advantageous for the city, and crucial for a strong start in public safety for his administration,” he remarked.