Mamdani calls for Democratic Party overhaul from Brooklyn rally, backing progressive challengers

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani used a Brooklyn rally to sharply criticize the Democratic Party and publicly back three progressive candidates (Claire Valdez, Brad Lander, Darializa Avila Chevalier) in New York’s upcoming congressional primaries. He argued the party’s current approach risks losing presidential elections and urged bold change now, highlighting opposition to corruption-fueled ads and pressure from groups like AIPAC. His slate targets incumbents Dan Goldman and Adriano Espaillat, pitting party unity against a broader push for electoral reform and new leadership ahead of the 2026 elections.