In Blow to Mamdani, Left-Leaning Group Breaks With Mayor Over U.S. House Race

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by Nicholas Fandos

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Working Families Party (WFP) has made a significant move in New York’s Democratic House primary race by endorsing Antonio Reynoso, the Brooklyn borough president, over Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s preferred candidate, Assemblywoman Claire Valdez. This decision marks a notable break between the WFP and Mayor Mamdani, who had been actively advocating for Valdez. The endorsement is expected to boost Reynoso’s momentum in the competitive race, particularly in Brooklyn and Queens, where progressive voters hold significant sway. Typically, a WFP nod comes with valuable resources, including volunteer support, financial backing, and influence among progressives. The WFP’s decision highlights the challenges Mayor Mamdani faces as he seeks to leverage his position as mayor to elevate fellow democratic socialists in upcoming congressional and state races. Internal sources revealed that Mayor Mamdani and his team had been working behind the scenes to rally party leaders in support of Valdez, a Democratic Socialist of America member whom he recruited to run for office. However, when it became clear that Valdez’s chances of securing the endorsement were slim, the mayor’s team shifted tactics, urging influential labor unions and advocacy groups within the WFP to push for neutrality instead. The outcome underscores the tensions within New York City’s Democratic Party and the broader progressive movement. While Reynoso’s endorsement by Representative Nydia M. Velázquez adds credibility to his campaign, it also raises questions about Mayor Mamdani’s ability to influence party dynamics as he enters his first term. The race is closely watched, with political observers noting that this split could have far-reaching implications for the Democratic primary and the broader effort to unite progressive forces in New York City. This development matters because it highlights the delicate balance of power within New

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/24/2026