Espaillat draws Justice Democrats-backed challenger
Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, faces a left-wing primary challenge from 31-year-old community organizer Darializa Avila Chevalier, who announced her bid Wednesday with backing from Justice Democrats. Avila Chevalier cited momentum from NYC Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani’s win, criticized Democratic leadership’s performance, and declined to commit to voting for Hakeem Jeffries as House leader if elected.
House Democratic Primaries
New York Politics
📌 Key Facts
- Challenger: Darializa Avila Chevalier, 31, community organizer
- Backer: Justice Democrats; cites Mamdani’s victory as inspiration
- Avila Chevalier declined to commit to voting for Hakeem Jeffries as leader
- Espaillat has drawn left-wing criticism in part over his support for Israel