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Bronx Democrats say incumbents largely held primaries as 13th District upset signals shifting dynamics
Summary
Sen. Jamaal Bailey told Bronx Talk that most Bronx incumbents won their primaries by sizable margins, while Darreliza Avila Chevalier’s victory over Rep. Adriano Espaillat in the 13th Congressional District reflects changing local political dynamics and the influence of endorsements and messaging.
Sen. Jamaal Bailey, chair of the Bronx Democratic Party and state senator for the 36th District, said Bronx incumbents “have seen the work” they did for constituents and that voters rewarded them with decisive primary margins while an upset in the 13th Congressional District showed changing political dynamics.
"And most importantly, that Bronxites have seen the work that they've been able to do, and and they recognize recognize that they've delivered for them," Bailey said, describing the margins by which incumbents won as "significant." He credited members such as Sen. Jose Marco Serrano, Sen. Robert Jackson, Rep. Richard Torres and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez for their work on behalf of the borough.
The host noted one notable exception: Darreliza Avila Chevalier defeated Representative Adriano Espaillat, who had served in Congress since 2017. Bailey called the result "certainly a surprise," saying Espaillat held serve in Bronx portions of the district but lost ground in Manhattan and that Chevalier "had what was considered to be a winning message," amplified by strong mayoral support.
Bailey also discussed the presence of the Democratic Socialists of America in city politics, saying they "run as Democrats" and have policy positions that differ from mainstream Democrats. He described the mayor as a democratic socialist and said the jury is still out on how far that movement has gained electoral strength in the Bronx.
On what it means to be "progressive," Bailey said the term should be understood as being "about progress," and cited his record on criminal justice reform as chair of the codes committee as illustrative of his approach.
Bailey framed his views on leadership and party cohesion in practical terms: he said accessible, consensus‑oriented leaders make it easier for legislators to discuss bills and "workshop" proposals, and he signaled that constituent choice should guide representative selection.
The interview closed without any formal endorsements or organizational actions announced; Bailey said party leaders and constituents will continue discussions about priorities and potential challengers ahead of the general election.
