NEW YORK — In a significant win for the Democratic Socialists of America, State Assemblymember Claire Valdez emerged victorious in the fiery primary for New York’s 7th Congressional District, spanning parts of Brooklyn and Queens. The seat, previously held by retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez, attracted substantial attention, highlighting deep-seated rivalries among progressive factions.

Valdez, who began her political tenure representing Queens last year, received robust support from both the local DSA chapter and Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Her main rival, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, was backed by the state's Working Families Party and Velázquez herself, setting the stage for a contentious showdown that echoed broader ideological battles within the party.

Dubbed the "Commie Corridor" due to its strong leftist leanings, the district became a battleground where candidates not only shared similar policy views but also fiercely contested each other's progressive credentials. Reynoso faced criticism from Valdez for his delayed labeling of Israel’s actions in Gaza as "genocide" and his acceptance of donations linked to the real estate sector.

In the campaign's final stretch, Valdez attempted to associate Reynoso with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a move designed to resonate with a base increasingly critical of Israel. AIPAC, however, denied involvement in the race.

Reynoso countered by highlighting his independence from political influences, a point he pressed further following allegations of NYPD collusion with Immigration and Customs Enforcement—an issue Mayor Mamdani was dragged into but denied.

Adding to the race's complexity was NYC Council member Julie Won, supported by prominent Asian American groups, and public defender Vichal Kumar, though neither managed significant impact on the race's outcome.

Amidst these dynamics, Valdez's campaign capitalized on her background as a union organizer and her ties to the burgeoning socialist movement in New York, spearheaded by figures like Mamdani. Her victory not only cements her position but also boosts Mamdani's influence, who has faced criticism from established Democratic figures for his aggressive political strategies.

With Reynoso not yet confirming whether he will continue on the Working Families Party line in the general election, Valdez is poised for a likely win against Republican contender Melvin Rivera this fall.

As Brooklyn and Queens prepare for new representation, this primary has undoubtedly set a precedent for the power dynamics and strategic alignments within New York's progressive circles, signaling that the battle for the soul of the Democratic party is far from over.