Mamdani, UAW Endorse Claire Valdez for NY-7 Congressional Race
Assembly Member Claire Valdez has received key endorsements from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the United Auto Workers (UAW) in her bid to replace U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez in New York’s 7th Congressional District, which covers parts of Western Queens and North Brooklyn.
Mamdani appeared alongside Valdez at a campaign event at Maria Hernandez Park in Bushwick on Friday, praising her commitment to workers’ rights and describing her as a candidate who will “stand with workers at every single opportunity.” Valdez, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), officially launched her campaign on Thursday, following Velázquez’s announcement last year that she would not seek re-election after 16 terms in Congress.
The UAW also endorsed Valdez during the event. Union President Shawn Fain highlighted her experience organizing with UAW Local 2110 at Columbia University and described her campaign as a “remedy” for working-class voters to counter corporate influence.
Valdez outlined her platform, emphasizing “housing for all, Medicare for all, and union for all,” and criticized federal policies she said harmed communities, including actions by ICE. She pledged to fight for stronger labor rights nationwide and to make union membership more accessible to workers.
While Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso has also declared his candidacy for the seat, Valdez positions herself as a farther-left alternative, drawing on grassroots organizing experience and support from progressive groups in Western Queens. Analysts note that Valdez’s candidacy reflects the growing influence of the DSA and progressive labor alliances following Mamdani’s victory last year.
Valdez expressed admiration for Velázquez, calling her “a true champion for working-class people,” and said she hopes to continue the former congresswoman’s legacy. Although Velázquez has not yet endorsed a candidate, reports suggest she may support Reynoso.
