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Darializa Avila Chevalier, a Mamdani Ally, Ousts Espaillat in Primary
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Darializa Avila Chevalier, a 32-year-old activist and democratic socialist, defeated five-term Representative Adriano Espaillat in the Democratic primary for New York’s 13th Congressional District, marking a significant political upset.
- The victory is seen as a major win for Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who endorsed Avila Chevalier despite previously promising to support Espaillat, signaling a shift away from New York’s Democratic old guard and Latino political establishment.
- The election reflects changing demographics and voter priorities in the heavily Democratic district, favoring a millennial newcomer over a long-serving incumbent with decades of political influence.
- Avila Chevalier’s controversial online history, including profane posts and conspiracy theories, became a focal point in the race but did not prevent her from securing a lead with 87 percent of votes counted.
- Given the district’s strong Democratic leaning, Avila Chevalier is widely expected to win the general election in November.
