DSA-backed Valdez wins open Brooklyn-Queens primary, reshaping NYC progressive power
State Assemblymember Claire Valdez, backed by the Democratic Socialists of America and Mayor Zohran Mamdani, won the open Brooklyn-Queens 7th District primary to succeed retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez, defeating Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso amid intra-progressive tensions and PAC spending debates; Valdez is favored to win the general election against Republican Melvin Rivera.