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DSA Snubs Chi Ossé’s 2026 Primary Challenge Against Hakeem Jeffries

A bold primary challenge falters as the DSA sidelines Ossé, leaving Jeffries’ path to Speaker unchecked. What’s next for the left’s fractured strategy?

There are group of people holding placards and walking. These are the trees. I can see small...
There are group of people holding placards and walking. These are the trees. I can see small bushes. This is the banner. I can see a building with name boards attached to it. These look like cars. I think these are the current polls.

DSA Snubs Chi Ossé’s 2026 Primary Challenge Against Hakeem Jeffries

A major democratic socialist group in New York City has decided not to back Council Member Chi Ossé in his planned challenge against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) voted against endorsing Ossé’s 2026 primary bid, following a heated internal debate among members. The outcome marks a win for Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who had publicly opposed the endorsement.

Ossé, 27, officially filed paperwork to explore a primary challenge against Jeffries, who has held the seat since 2013. The incumbent, now 55, has faced growing criticism from the party’s progressive wing but has run unopposed in five of his last seven elections. If Democrats secure a majority in the 2026 midterms, Jeffries is widely seen as the frontrunner to become House Speaker, given his current role as Democratic Whip.

The DSA’s rejection of Ossé’s bid leaves him without a key progressive endorsement in his challenge to Jeffries. The incumbent remains a dominant figure in the party, with his sights set on a potential Speaker role if Democrats perform well in 2026. The outcome also reflects divisions within the left over strategy and leadership in upcoming elections.

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