Mayor Backs Far-Left Candidate Against Incumbent Congressman

Mayor Zoran Mamdani publicly supported far-left candidate Dalia Lisa Avila Chevalier on Thursday as she aims to unseat long-serving Congressman Adriano Espaira, who has faced criticism for his extremist views on Israel.

Mamdani praised Chevalier’s dedication to advocating for communities often overlooked by government, calling her a Congressional candidate committed to fighting for those in need.

“She stands for the release of neighbors unjustly held by ICE and has a long track record of prioritizing affordability, dignity, and community-centered politics,” Mamdani stated about the candidate supported by the Democratic Socialist Party of America.

Chevalier, 32, a former official from Mamdani’s mayoral campaign, has energized her campaign with grassroots support against big-money influence. “Her campaign is fueled by workers ready to demand better. Let’s win this,” he added.

The mayor has also endorsed other congressional candidates ahead of the upcoming June primary, including former city auditor Brad Lander and state Rep. Claire Valdez.

In response, Chevalier expressed gratitude for Mamdani’s support, highlighting his past successes. “Last year, he showed the nation that people can triumph over machines,” she tweeted.

For his part, Congressman Espaira, first elected in 2017 and now 71 years old, brushed off Mamdani’s endorsement, emphasizing his backing from notable figures such as Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Attorney General Letitia James.

“Mayor Mamdani has every right to support whom he chooses,” Espaira remarked, adding that it’s ultimately the voters’ decision that matters.

Known for her strong anti-Israel stance, Chevalier endorses several radical policies, such as abolishing prisons and legalizing various drugs. She also advocates for dismantling ICE and halting military aid to Israel.

In the past, Chevalier has attracted controversy for her social media activity, including a now-deleted tweet from 2019 where she jokingly mentioned using the American flag to dry her hands after forgetting napkins. Additionally, she has made headlines for her critical attitudes towards interracial relationships and remarks about “old white women.”

The congressional race is set in the 13th District, covering areas like Harlem, Washington Heights, and parts of the Bronx, where both candidates are vying for representation.