Brad Lander, the outgoing New York City comptroller and influential figure in progressive politics, announced on Wednesday his intent to run for Congress, positioning himself against moderate Democrat Dan Goldman for a congressional seat that encompasses Lower Manhattan and parts of northwest Brooklyn.
Lander’s candidacy comes on the heels of the excitement generated by Zohran Mamdani’s surprising mayoral victory, which many progressives see as indicative of a shifting political landscape within the Democratic Party. “Our mayor can have an ally in Washington instead of an adversary in his own backyard,” Lander declared in a campaign video, where he criticized Goldman’s pro-Israel stance and highlighted the influence of wealth in politics. “While the oligarchy drives the affordability crisis, they shouldn’t be able to buy a seat in Congress,” he stated.
Having been a staple in city politics for over a decade, Lander’s experience includes roles as a councilmember and city comptroller, where he was praised for his fiscal management. He gained national recognition for his outspoken actions, particularly in response to the detainment of migrants in New York. Despite his aspirations to be Mamdani’s first deputy mayor, the position went to Dean Fuleihan.
The differing views on Israel are anticipated to be a significant focal point in the race. Lander, a self-identified liberal Zionist, has been vocal about criticizing Israel’s actions in the recent conflict and has called for a cease-fire. In contrast, Goldman has defended Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. Goldman has previously expressed concerns regarding Mamdani’s response to antisemitic violence, urging him to take a clearer stance.
Following reports of Lander’s impending entry into the race, Goldman’s campaign sought to reaffirm his progressive credentials, emphasizing his ongoing efforts to assist immigrant families and assure supporters of his track record in Congress. “Dan is focused on stopping the Trump administration from what they’re doing to immigrant families in his district right now,” said Maddy Rosen, a spokesperson for Goldman.
Progressives have been eager for an opportunity to challenge Goldman since he won a newly established seat four years ago. Lander’s announcement is particularly significant given the Working Families Party’s recent endorsement, which aimed to unify the left in the race and avoid division among candidates. Alexa Avilés and Yuh-Line Niou, both of whom are also vying for the seat, have expressed interest in contributing to this progressive consolidation.
The Working Families Party, which effectively supported Mamdani during his campaign, is now focusing on a unified approach, stressing the importance of strategic support for a single candidate in this historically stronghold district. Their goal is to avoid a repeat of the 2022 race, where several candidates, including former Mayor Bill de Blasio, vied for the open seat, resulting in a fragmented left vote that ultimately benefitted Goldman, who outspent his opponents significantly.
As Lander moves forward with his campaign, the race is set to highlight the challenges of competing against a well-resourced incumbent while reflecting the evolving dynamics of progressivism within New York City politics. The upcoming contests promise to be closely watched as candidates seek to define their positions and mobilize constituents in a time of significant political enthusiasm.