Democratic Candidates in New York’s 13th Congressional District Share World Cup Preferences
On June 13, key candidates in the Democratic primary for New York’s 13th Congressional District revealed their support for non-U.S. teams during the FIFA World Cup.
Dan Mannarino, the host of PIX on Politics, asked incumbent Congressman Adriano Espaillat and his challenger Dalializa Avila Chevalier about their predictions. “What teams are you hoping will take it all?” he inquired.
“I love Mexico,” Espaillat responded with a grin, proudly representing the Hispanic community.
Chevalier declared, “I’m rooting for Senegal,” identifying as a dedicated member of the Democratic Socialists of America from New York City.
The World Cup, hosted by the U.S., kicked off on June 11, drawing teams and fans globally to witness top-tier soccer action that happens every four years.
Neither Espaillat nor Chevalier had the opportunity to elaborate on their choices. As noted by online betting platforms like FanDuel Sportsbook, neither Mexico nor Senegal has ever clinched a win in the 23 men’s World Cups; both are seen as long shots for the title.
Mannarino also asked about his own favorite teams, but both candidates lack a clear connection to the nations they are supporting.
Espaillat and Chevalier are competing for a district where 50% of the population is Hispanic, which is notably higher than the average across New York.
It seems that Espaillat, aware of his strong electoral base, is working toward maintaining support by pushing for protections while creating pathways to citizenship for illegal immigrants.
On the other hand, Chevalier aims to position herself as a more moderate alternative, receiving backing from fellow Democratic Socialist Mayor Zoran Mamdani.
Following Senegal’s independence from France in 1960, the nation presented itself as an “African socialist,” but did not achieve a peaceful transition of power until 2000.
Chevalier describes herself as an “Afro-Latina” who aims for equity within New York City. According to her platform, she plans to sign a bill making housing a human right and providing universal healthcare on her first day in office.
Interestingly, she has deleted a prior social media post criticizing America, where she called it a “fucking disgrace” and revealed a photo of her using an American flag as a napkin.
Requests for comments from the campaigns of both candidates went unanswered.
