Claire Valdez invokes Mexican Independence in New York Congressional bid

Claire Valdez, the Democratic nominee for New York’s 7th Congressional District and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), has drawn attention for her comments regarding Mexico.

In a post on X celebrating the 215th anniversary of Mexican Independence, Valdez stated that she would “carry that fight” into Congress, referencing the historical struggle against an empire that “demanded our land and our labor.” She also expressed support for Morena, the leftist political party currently governing Mexico, describing her recent meeting with members of the party as “comrades” who are “building a government for the working class.”

Valdez, a current New York State Assembly member, identified herself as potentially being New York’s first Mexican American representative. Her remarks have prompted criticism regarding her political priorities and national loyalty.