New York’s Democratic primary elections on June 25, 2024, are serving as a critical test for the growing divide within the party between progressive activists and establishment politicians. With the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) fielding 10 candidates across congressional, state Assembly, and state Senate races, the elections will determine whether the party’s left wing can translate grassroots momentum into electoral wins. Key issues include opposition to U.S. policy on Israel-Palestine, with DSA challengers framing their campaigns around antiwar positions while some incumbents have received significant funding from pro-Israel super PACs.
According to the Democratic Socialists of America, the organization’s slate includes candidates running in high-profile districts such as New York’s 14th Congressional District, where DSA-endorsed Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez faces a primary challenge from Brandon Colvin, a teacher and activist. In the state Senate, DSA-backed Brandon Gershkowitz is challenging incumbent Brad Hoylman, a longtime pro-Israel ally who has received over $500,000 from pro-Israel super PACs since 2020, according to OpenSecrets.
The stakes are particularly high given the escalating conflict in Gaza, which has become a defining issue for many voters. A New York Times/Siena College poll released last week found that 62% of New York Democratic primary voters say U.S. policy toward Israel is a “very important” issue in their decision-making. DSA candidates have positioned themselves as unapologetic critics of U.S. military aid to Israel, while establishment Democrats have largely avoided direct criticism, instead emphasizing support for a ceasefire while maintaining diplomatic ties.
Why This Primary Could Reshape the Democratic Party
The 2024 New York primaries come as the DSA has grown from a fringe group to a formidable force within the Democratic Party. With over 100,000 members nationwide, the organization has endorsed candidates in more than 40 races this year, according to its 2024 campaign page. The group’s success in New York could signal whether its strategy of running movement-backed candidates against establishment incumbents can gain traction beyond local races.
Political analysts say the primary also reflects broader tensions within the Democratic base. A Brookings Institution report notes that while the party’s progressive wing has gained influence in recent years—thanks in part to figures like AOC—establishment Democrats still dominate fundraising and institutional power. The question now is whether the DSA’s antiwar stance can overcome that advantage.
One key factor is voter turnout. Early voting data from New York shows that progressive-leaning districts, particularly in Brooklyn and Queens, are seeing higher participation than in past elections. If those trends hold, DSA candidates could make significant gains. However, establishment-backed candidates still hold a fundraising edge: OpenSecrets data indicates that incumbents in contested races have raised an average of $1.2 million each, compared to $200,000 for DSA-backed challengers.
Israel-Palestine: The Issue Dividing Democrats
The conflict in Gaza has become a litmus test for Democratic candidates. While DSA candidates have called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel, establishment Democrats have largely avoided direct criticism of Israel’s government. For example, Congresswoman Grace Meng, who represents Queens, has received $300,000 from pro-Israel PACs since 2020 but has not publicly opposed U.S. military support for Israel.
In contrast, DSA candidates like Jessica Rubino, running for state Assembly in the Bronx, have framed their campaigns around opposition to U.S. involvement in the conflict. “People are tired of politicians who take corporate money and then vote for endless wars,” Rubino told Democracy Now in a recent interview. “We need leaders who will stand with the Palestinian people and demand an end to U.S. complicity in genocide.”
The divide is also playing out in fundraising. A JStreet analysis found that pro-Israel super PACs have spent over $10 million on ads supporting establishment Democrats in New York, while DSA candidates have relied on small-dollar donations from grassroots supporters. The contrast highlights the financial power of the pro-Israel lobby within the Democratic Party.
What Happens Next: Key Races to Watch
The results of today’s primary will provide early indications of whether the DSA’s strategy can succeed. Here are three races that could set the tone for the party’s future:
- NY-14 Congressional District: Brandon Colvin is challenging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a progressive icon who has faced criticism for not endorsing Colvin’s more radical antiwar stance. Colvin’s campaign has focused on Palestine, arguing that AOC has not gone far enough in opposing U.S. military aid.
- NY State Senate District 29: Brandon Gershkowitz is taking on incumbent Sen. Brad Hoylman, a longtime ally of Israel who has received significant funding from pro-Israel groups. Gershkowitz’s campaign has framed the race as a choice between corporate politics and grassroots democracy.
- NY State Assembly District 63: Jessica Rubino is challenging Assemblyman James McDonald, who has voted consistently with pro-Israel interests. Rubino’s campaign has emphasized her work as a Palestinian solidarity activist.
Beyond these races, the primary will also test whether the DSA can expand its influence beyond urban areas. While the organization has strong support in Brooklyn and Queens, its candidates are also running in more conservative districts, such as Emily Rushford’s challenge to Rep. Tony Delgado in Buffalo, where the race is expected to be closer.
What the Results Could Mean for the Democratic Party
If DSA candidates perform strongly, it could signal a shift in the party’s direction, with more emphasis on antiwar and anti-corporate policies. However, if establishment Democrats hold their ground, it may indicate that the party’s base remains divided on these issues.
Political scientists say the primary also reflects broader trends in U.S. politics. A Pew Research Center report found that 40% of Democrats now identify as progressive, up from 28% in 2020. The question is whether that progressivism will translate into electoral victories.
For now, the focus remains on today’s results. Official tallies are expected to be released by New York’s Board of Elections on June 26, with final certification expected by July 2. If DSA candidates make significant gains, it could embolden the organization to run more challengers in future elections. If they fall short, the establishment may tighten its grip on the party’s future.
One thing is clear: the New York primary is more than just a local election. It is a referendum on the future of the Democratic Party—and whether the antiwar left can break through.
Where to Follow Updates
For real-time results and analysis, follow these official sources:
- New York State Board of Elections – Official vote tallies and race updates.
- Democratic Socialists of America – Candidate statements and endorsements.
- OpenSecrets – Campaign finance data for all candidates.
- The New York Times – Primary Election Coverage – In-depth reporting on key races.
Results will begin streaming in the evening of June 25, with full certification expected by July 2. Stay tuned for further analysis as the dust settles.
What do you think? Will the DSA’s antiwar challenge reshape the Democratic Party, or will establishment Democrats hold their ground? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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