NYT: Mamdani Urging Lander to Challenge Rep. Goldman in Democratic Primary

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is reportedly encouraging City Comptroller Brad Lander to challenge Representative Daniel Goldman in the Democratic primary, The New York Times reported Friday.

Goldman, 49, represents New York’s 10th Congressional District, which covers parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan, including neighborhoods such as Downtown Brooklyn, Boerum Hill, and Tribeca. The district has a diverse electorate and voted heavily for Mamdani in the mayoral race. Goldman, a former federal prosecutor and Levi Strauss heir, is considered a moderate Democrat and has faced criticism from progressive and left-leaning constituents for his stances on Israel and the Gaza conflict.

The Times reports that Mamdani’s encouragement comes after he passed over Lander for a top city administration post, instead naming veteran official Dean Fuleihan as first deputy mayor. Lander, a longtime progressive, had been considered a potential partner in City Hall, but Mamdani’s preference for a seasoned bureaucrat shaped the decision.

Sources told the Times that Mamdani privately signaled he would support and campaign for Lander if he ran against Goldman, potentially reshaping the primary field. Other progressive figures, including Councilwoman Alexa Avilés, had considered their own challenges to Goldman, but Mamdani’s backing of Lander could influence the outcome.

The Times notes that Mamdani’s maneuvering reflects his broader strategy to consolidate the left’s political influence in New York City while managing tensions within the Democratic Socialist and progressive coalitions.

Goldman’s office declined to comment on Mamdani’s involvement but emphasized that the congressman remains focused on his legislative record, including opposition to Trump administration policies and advocacy for his constituents.