NEW YORK January 9, 2026 — New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain have jointly endorsed New York State Assemblymember Claire Valdez in her newly launched campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives in New York’s 7th Congressional District.
Valdez, a democratic socialist, union organizer, and current representative for Queens’ 37th Assembly District, announced her bid to succeed retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.) earlier this week. The district spans parts of Brooklyn and Queens.
In a post on X, Mayor Mamdani highlighted Valdez’s focus on working-class issues: “Claire Valdez believes in the people who make Brooklyn and Queens run—and in their ability to shape our future. She’s running for Congress to deliver a real agenda for the working class. Proud to endorse @claireforny alongside @ShawnFainUAW, whose leadership has showcased what’s possible when working people organize.”
The endorsement event featured a rally with strong union support, where Valdez addressed supporters amid signs promoting labor rights and her campaign.
Valdez, known for her progressive platform and background as a former UAW organizer, has positioned her campaign around delivering for working families, universal childcare, and stronger labor protections.
The backing from Mamdani—a fellow democratic socialist—and Fain underscores growing momentum for leftist candidates in New York Democratic primaries ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Valdez’s campaign website encourages donations and volunteer support as she prepares for a competitive primary field.
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