New York City politics: Hamas protest controversy and Harlem senator backs Congressman Espaillat

Congressional candidate Darializa Ávila Chevalier faced criticism after attending a Times Square demonstration on October 8, 2023 that was described by New York officials as celebrating Hamas atrocities. Governor Kathy Hochul called the rally “abhorrent and morally repugnant,” and city officials condemned the event as “atrocious.” Ávila Chevalier defended her participation and said she does not regret attending.

State Senator Cordell Cleare of Harlem publicly endorsed Congressman Adriano Espaillat during a breakfast with religious leaders, praising his work on public housing, transportation projects and immigrant support. Cleare highlighted Espaillat’s role in securing funding for the Second Avenue Subway extension and urged continued representation that understands Harlem’s community needs.