Why Jack Schlossberg’s allies are worried about Tuesday’s election

Key Points:

• Jack Kennedy Schlossberg, running in the Democratic primary for Manhattan’s 12th District, is learning firsthand the harsh realities of New York City machine politics, media scrutiny, and the limits of family legacy in politics.
• Schlossberg’s campaign centers on leveraging his Kennedy lineage and large social media following to engage voters disillusioned with politics, but he faces skepticism from established politicians and polling that suggests he may struggle to win.
• His campaign has been marked by internal challenges, including firing traditional staff, misunderstandings about ranked-choice voting, and public disputes with opponents and consultants, raising questions about his political experience and management style.
• Key opponents like Assemblymen Micah Lasher and Alex Bores emphasize experience and effectiveness over legacy, with Lasher receiving support from retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler and both criticizing Schlossberg’s qualifications.
• Despite setbacks, Schlossberg remains committed to his campaign, highlighting evolving policy positions, especially on Israel, and stressing the urgency of political change amid what he calls a “code-red” situation for America and the Democratic Party.