New York Democratic Socialist Candidates Focus on Housing and Immigration Ahead of Congressional Primaries

Four Democratic Socialists contested the Spanish‑language primary debate in New York’s 13th congressional district, which covers Upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Incumbent Adriano Espaillat faced challengers Darializa Ávila Chevalier, Theo Chino‑Tavárez and Óscar Romero. The candidates debated the high cost of living, affordable housing, and immigration policy before an audience of about 800,000 residents. Ávila Chevalier called for the abolition of ICE, arguing that deportation should not be a public policy. Espaillat defended returning individuals convicted of violent crimes, while Romero described ICE as a “paramilitary” structure and also urged its dismantling.

In the neighboring 7th district, DSA activist Claire Valdez, a former low‑wage worker and union organizer, is campaigning for the open House seat. Valdez stresses tenant protections, publicly funded health care, and opposition to federal spending on ICE and luxury real‑estate development. She highlights the displacement of longtime residents by private‑equity projects and positions her campaign as part of a broader DSA effort to win progressive seats in New York’s congressional delegation.