Mayor-elect Mamdani Urges Chi Ossé to Stay Focused on NYC, Discourages Primary Against Hakeem Jeffries

Zohran Mamdani, New York City's mayor-elect, said Wednesday that now is not the time for a high-profile Democratic primary against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and urged City Council Member Chi Ossé to concentrate on local priorities.

In a local interview, reporter Dan Mannarino asked Mamdani about reports that Ossé — a member of the Democratic Socialists of America — may challenge Jeffries. Mamdani responded, 'I'm saying that I think the focus should be right here on New York City. I respect the work that Council Member Ossé has done.'

When pressed on whether Ossé should run, Mamdani reiterated his position: 'I think that right now is not the time to be engaging in that kind of a primary. I think the focus should be on delivering on this affordability agenda.' He emphasized the need to prioritize housing, cost-of-living pressures and other citywide challenges.

Ossé filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission signaling a possible congressional campaign that could position him to challenge Jeffries, who is up for re-election in 2026. Reports say Mamdani privately urged Ossé against mounting a bid despite Ossé being seen as a political ally.

Mamdani, who describes himself as a democratic socialist, also said he has not made formal endorsements amid ongoing speculation: 'Every day I wake up, and I think about the affordability agenda.'

Separate reports have suggested Mamdani might support Aber Kawas, a longtime Palestinian American activist, for a state Assembly seat; a senior adviser to Mamdani's transition team said Mamdani respects the candidates and would back Kawas if she runs. Mamdani has not publicly commented on that race.