Pelosi and Omar Silent on Mamdani-Backed Primary Wins
Socialism influence rises as Mamdani-backed Democrats win New York primaries See how the victories may reshape House Democrats and the party's agenda
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Rep. Ilhan Omar declined to answer questions about the growing influence of socialism after three candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani won Democratic primaries on Tuesday.
The winners — Darializa Avila Chevalier, Brad Lander and Claire Valdez — defeated more moderate Democrats, underscoring Mamdani’s rising influence inside the party. Pelosi, who has previously said she rejects socialism as an economic system, did not comment on the results.
Omar also did not respond to questions about whether the victories could complicate House Democrats’ agenda if the candidates win in November. Rep. Hank Johnson said he expects the new lawmakers to join the caucus and described their criticism as aimed at the Israeli government rather than Israel itself.