New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly supported fellow democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier, who is running for U.S. Congress, despite the resurfacing of her deleted social media posts from 2018 to 2022. These posts, which have since been removed, contained statements critical of the United States, the Democratic Party, private property, police, and borders. Avila Chevalier, 32, is challenging five-term incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., in New York's 13th congressional district, which includes parts of Upper Manhattan and the west Bronx.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
Avila Chevalier's posts included calls to abolish borders, prisons, and police, as well as derogatory remarks about former President Joe Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders, and Vice President Kamala Harris. She also advocated for nationalizing large sectors of the private economy, including utilities, pharmaceutical companies, and hospitals, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mamdani, when asked about his support for Avila Chevalier, reaffirmed his stance in a Wednesday news conference.
Deeper Dive & Context
Avila Chevalier's Background and Views
Avila Chevalier is a longtime community organizer who led anti-Israel protests at Columbia University. Her posts included statements such as 'This country is a f-----g disgrace' and 'I forgot to get napkins so I just wiped my hand on the American flag behind me.' She also called Biden a 'rapist' and 'war criminal,' criticized Sanders for his 'liberal Zionism,' and used profanity directed at Harris.
Mamdani's Response
Mamdani has defended his support for Avila Chevalier, emphasizing solidarity among progressive candidates. He has not publicly addressed the specific content of her posts but has reiterated his commitment to socialist policies, including rent freezes and city-run stores.
Political Reactions
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin criticized Mamdani, calling him a 'socialist communist' with 'zero respect' and vowing to restore law in American cities. Mullin's remarks came amid tensions over ICE raids in New York, where local officials have refused to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
Policy Implications
Avila Chevalier's platform includes demands for universal basic income, nationalizing key industries, and expanding Medicare. Her views align with a broader movement advocating for systemic economic and social reforms, though her past statements have drawn criticism from opponents who argue they reflect extremism.
Electoral Context
The race in New York's 13th congressional district is closely watched as a test of progressive influence within the Democratic Party. Espaillat, the incumbent, has held the seat since 2017 and represents a more moderate wing of the party compared to Avila Chevalier's far-left stance.