WASHINGTON, D.C.. – There are a handful of high-stakes primaries in New York’s congressional races. Democrats face crowded primary races in districts 10, 12 and 13 that cover New York City. It’s the new Mayor’s political influence that’s being tested today in some of these races.
“All of these are very safe Democratic seats so you gotta believe whoever wins the Democratic primary is a shoe in for the general election,” said Dr. Todd Belt, professor and director of political management program at George Washington University.
In the Hudson Valley, a competitive democratic race to challenge Republicnan incumbent Rep. Mike Lawler (R- NY).
“He won very closely in 2022 and better in 2024, but Democrats think this is a likely flip for them,” said Dr. Belt.
While these primaries are expensive, they are not the most expensive primary races we’ve seen so far this year.
“For this one it’s not so much how much money is coming in, it’s where it’s coming from,” said Dr. Belt. “And of course AIPAC is getting a tarnished reputation among Democrats and also there’s a lot of AI corporate money coming in as well and there are people who are taking strong positions on regulation of AI so it’s less than the amount but more of who is taking from whom.”
NYC’s new progressive Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s political capital is also on the line by backing progressive candidates in the 10th and 13th districts.
Republicans currently hold a small majority in the House with some seats vacant. Democrats are hoping to retake control of the House but redistricting could jeopardize their chances. Political scientists said the party that is not in control typically makes some gains in the midterms.
“I think what’s really interesting in going on now is who is going to be on the Democratic slate for what the Democrats hope will be a wave election this time which will help retake the House,” said Dr. Belt.
