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Jeffries and Harlem Leaders Rally Behind Espaillat in Tight NY‑13 Primary

The endorsements test whether older Black and Latino turnout can overcome energized DSA support before the June 23 Democratic primary.

Overview

  • Early voting began on June 13, compressing the final sprint and raising the importance of turnout in the June 23 primary.
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and several Harlem elected officials publicly endorsed five‑term Rep. Adriano Espaillat at a high‑profile event to mobilize Black voters.
  • Mayor Zohran Mamdani continues to back DSA‑aligned challenger Darializa Avila Chevalier, who has drawn national progressive allies and younger voters.
  • A Mercury Public Affairs poll commissioned by a pro‑Espaillat group shows Espaillat ahead 35% to 27% but reports 38% of likely Democratic primary voters remain undecided, keeping the race competitive.
  • Outside groups are piling on money and ads, with the National Black Empowerment Action Fund planning at least $500,000 in the final week, potentially shaping turnout and messaging on policing and education.