Schumer, Jeffries Withhold Mamdani Endorsement

Zohran Mamdani, the 33-year-old self-described democratic socialist who won the New York City mayoral primary, has drawn endorsements from national progressives including Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez, as well as key New York Democrats such as Gov. Kathy Hochul and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. Former Vice President Kamala Harris gave a tepid endorsement on MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow Show, saying “he’s the Democratic nominee and he should be supported” while also praising other rising Democrats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries have so far declined to offer public endorsements, with Schumer saying he will “continue talking to him.” Mamdani’s surprise primary victory and views — including on Israel — have sparked debate within the party. Some Democrats and analysts say leaders’ hesitation reflects strategic calculations about electability and the Senate majority fight and underscores a broader intraparty struggle over ideology and how national Democrats should engage with insurgent local candidates.