NEW YORK CITY, July 11, 2025 – Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City Mayor, has secured a significant endorsement from Representative Adriano Espaillat, a prominent Latino leader representing northern Manhattan and the Bronx. The endorsement, announced on Thursday, underscores Mamdani’s commitment to addressing affordability and serving working-class New Yorkers, as he prepares for the general election.
Espaillat, a senior member of the House of Representatives and a key figure in New York’s Democratic delegation, praised Mamdani for his “deep commitment to tackling the stubborn issues facing New York City.” This support comes as Mamdani, a democratic socialist and current New York State Assembly member, seeks to broaden his coalition, following endorsements from other prominent Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and major unions.
The endorsement coincides with a broader push for transparency in government, as the Senate Appropriations Committee, where Espaillat serves, unanimously passed an amendment by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to preserve all documents related to Jeffrey Epstein’s cases. This legislative move, part of the committee’s efforts to finalize the annual Justice Department funding bill, reflects a bipartisan interest in ensuring accountability amidst ongoing scrutiny of Epstein’s case.
Mamdani’s campaign focuses on lowering the cost of living for working-class New Yorkers, a theme resonant with Espaillat’s support. However, the endorsement has drawn criticism from opponents who accuse Mamdani of promoting a radical agenda that could exacerbate issues like crime and economic strain in the city. Despite these challenges, Mamdani’s strategy leverages his immigrant background and progressive policies to appeal to a diverse electorate.
As the general election approaches, this endorsement from Espaillat is seen as a critical step in strengthening Mamdani’s position, particularly in key districts where affordability and social justice are paramount concerns. The intersection of local and national issues, including the Epstein document preservation, highlights the complex political landscape Mamdani navigates as he aims to lead New York City forward.