Hispanic Caucus Invests Millions to Defend Chair Espaillat Against Socialist Challenger

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus's political arm is pouring significant resources into the primary race to defend its chair, Representative Adriano Espaillat of New York. Linda Sánchez, who heads the CHC’s BOLD PAC, confirmed that her group is heavily backing Espaillat in his bid for reelection against Darializa Avila Chevalier, a democratic socialist challenger endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The race has attracted substantial independent expenditures from outside groups and national media attention, with BOLD America, a PAC launched in 2023 to support Hispanic Democrats, investing more than $2.5 million so far.

Espaillat faces a tight contest according to recent polling data; a Data for Progress poll commissioned by Justice Democrats shows Avila Chevalier leading Espaillat 39% to 35%. The race is particularly contentious, with Espaillat's campaign and aligned groups running ads highlighting inflammatory social media posts from his opponent. This strategy underscores the high stakes of retaining control over the Hispanic Caucus leadership, which has significant influence within the Democratic Party.

The large financial investment by BOLD America highlights the perceived threat to Espaillat’s position. The race in New York's 13th District, covering parts of Upper Manhattan and the West Bronx, is also receiving support from American Priorities, a pro-Palestinian super PAC that has spent $500,000 on Avila Chevalier's campaign. Espaillat himself has called for stricter campaign finance regulations, citing concerns about the influence of unlimited money in politics following the Citizens United decision.

The primary election is scheduled for June 23, with early voting beginning on June 13. The outcome will have implications not only for Espaillat's political future but also for the broader dynamics within the Democratic Party and its stance on immigration and social issues.