Democratic Socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier undecided on supporting Hakeem Jeffries as House speaker

Democratic Socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier, who defeated incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat in the Democratic primary for New York’s 13th congressional district, said she has not yet decided whether to vote for Hakeem Jeffries as speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. In interviews with PIX 11 and on Joy Reid’s show, she said her first vote will set the tone for her district and that she will consult constituents before making a decision, especially if Democrats regain a majority.

Jeffries responded that Chevalier’s views are “clearly not my views,” emphasizing a split between the party leadership and a growing bloc of Democratic Socialists, including other newcomers such as Claire Valdez and former Rep. Cori Bush, who also have not committed support. The indecision adds uncertainty to the upcoming speaker election within the Democratic caucus.