Sanders and Mamdani endorse progressive challenger in New York congressional primary
Bernie Sanders and Mamdani have endorsed Democratic Assembly member Claire Valdez in primary for New York's 7th Congressional District
NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) – Senator Bernie Sanders has endorsed Democratic Assembly member Claire Valdez in the June 23 primary for New York’s 7th Congressional District, joining New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani in backing the progressive candidate over Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso for the seat currently held by Representative Nydia Velazquez.
Valdez, a former union organizer and low-wage worker who describes herself as a democratic socialist, credited Sanders with inspiring her political career.
“Three things made me a democratic socialist: low-wage jobs, the labor movement and Bernie Sanders’ runs for president,” said Valdez, 36. “His political revolution changed my life.”
Sanders said Valdez has “the experience and vision we need to take on the oligarchy and fight for unions, Medicare for All, and affordable housing,” adding that Congress “needs more voices who come from America’s working class.”
Valdez’s campaign said it raised $750,000 in the first quarter of 2026 from more than 11,000 donors, averaging around $50 each. She has pledged not to accept funds from corporate entities or political action committees.
Reynoso’s campaign did not immediately respond to questions about his first-quarter fundraising.
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