Stuart Varney from Fox News has focused on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s efforts to establish the city as a center for socialist politics. Mamdani supports left-wing congressional candidates, including Daria Alisa, who advocates for policies like free childcare, free college, and the abolition of ICE. Varney poses Mamdani as a potential successor to Bernie Sanders as the leader of socialism in the United States at only 34 years old.
Although not running himself, Mamdani’s influence will be a vital test for both Democratic and Republican parties as several states, including New York, hold primary elections. President Donald Trump has made a late endorsement in a South Carolina gubernatorial runoff, showing his continuing sway within the Republican party.
Mamdani challenges the Democratic establishment a year after winning his primary and becoming mayor of the highly populated New York City. His support goes to congressional contenders like Darializa Avila Chevalier, who takes on Rep. Adriano Espaillat in New York’s 13th District. Chevalier hopes a victory could spark a nationwide socialist movement. Espaillat enjoys backing from party figures, including Governor Kathy Hochul.
Additionally, former city Comptroller Brad Lander receives Mamdani’s endorsement as he challenges Rep. Dan Goldman in District 10. Mamdani also supports state Assembly Member Claire Valdez against Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in District 7. Their campaigns partly focus on Israel-related issues, with Mamdani having labelled AIPAC, a pro-Israel group, unfavorably.
Mamdani emphasized during a rally with Bernie Sanders that this political season is crucial for change within the Democratic Party. This move may either cement Mamdani as a key influencer or weaken his political strength. Despite being labeled a radical, Mamdani has gained approval even from opponents and former President Trump.
Strategist Joe Caiazzo notes Mamdani understands leveraging power, maintaining popularity, but also being aware of its transient nature. The congressional candidates he supports focus on affordability in a costly city, aligning with Mamdani’s political platform. This alignment offers Republicans materials to criticize Democrats as they defend their narrow majority in the House during the midterms.
Meanwhile, Trump’s endorsements continue to influence Republican primaries. In South Carolina, Trump supported both Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, intending to secure influence regardless of the winner. This approach mirrors his 2022 strategy in the Missouri Senate primary.
The South Carolina runoff between Evette and Wilson had high tensions, with both candidates exchanging personal attacks during debates. Wilson emphasizes his legal and military experience, while Evette promotes her outsider status and Trump’s backing.
Trump’s influence also stretches to New York’s 23rd District primary as he supports Anthony Constantino against Robert Smullen, who has state party support.
The primary season showcases significant races, including notable figures like Jack Schlossberg and former anti-Trump lawyer George Conway vying for a retiring incumbent’s Manhattan congressional seat.
In Utah, a newly drawn district alters congressional races, while Maryland’s Democratic Governor Wes Moore faces a primary challenger amid potential presidential ambitions.