DSA sets sights on Brooklyn Assembly seats and open House race

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., left, New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, center, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., appear on stage during a rally, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in New York. Photo: Heather Khalifa/AP

BROOKLYN — The city chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America is preparing a renewed push in several Brooklyn races ahead of the 2026 midterms, aiming at both incumbents and open seats amid the group’s momentum from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s victory.

In North Brooklyn, the DSA has officially endorsed Christian Celeste Tate to challenge Assemblymember Erik Dilan in Assembly District 54, a Williamsburg-Bushwick seat the group has unsuccessfully targeted in past cycles, according to City & State NY.

In central Brooklyn, Eon Huntley is mounting a rematch against Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman in District 56 after narrowly losing in 2024, now with stronger local backing and the DSA’s renewed endorsement.

At the Congressional level, the DSA is weighing a challenge in the open 7th Congressional District following longtime Rep. Nydia Velázquez’s decision not to seek reelection. Queens Assemblymember Claire Valdez is widely seen as the likely DSA pick, setting up a potential contest with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, who is already consolidating establishment support.

DSA leaders say Brooklyn remains central to their strategy as they look to expand their legislative foothold beyond City Hall.

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