Sanders joins Mamdani, endorses democratic socialist Claire Valdez for Congress

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NEW YORK - Sen. Bernie Sanders is endorsing Assemblymember and democratic socialist Claire Valdez for Congress.

Valdez running for Congress

Valdez is running to be the representative of New York's 7th congressional district.

The position is currently held by Rep. Nydia Velázquez, who has chosen not to run for reelection.

Representative Nydia Velazquez speaks during a press conference outside 26 Federal Plaza in New York USA on June 8 2025. (Photo by Madison Swart / Hans Lucas via AFP) (Photo by MADISON SWART/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

Certain issues the assemblymember prioritizes on her campaign website include guaranteeing affordable housing, strengthening unions and sponsoring Medicare for All.

Valdez also highlights that, if elected, she would fight to "dismantle and abolish ICE."

Assemblymember Claire Valdez, Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, and former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander participate alongside thousands in a 'No Wars, No Kings, No ICE' protest and march down Fifth Avenue in Manhattan against the policies

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Sanders' endorsement

Valdez posted about Sanders' endorsement earlier today, April 2.

She is also endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Other candidates

There are several other candidates running for the upcoming Democratic primary, but two notables are Councilmember Julie Won and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.

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