Key takeaways:
- Zohran Mamdani asked the DSA not to back Chi Osse’s bid.
- He spoke at a Brooklyn meeting on Wednesday night.
- He warned of division ahead of the 2026 congressional race.
- His plea highlights local political tensions.
On Wednesday night, Zohran Mamdani appeared at a Democratic Socialists of America meeting. He asked members not to endorse Chi Osse’s 2026 challenge. Osse once helped Mamdani in his campaign. Yet Mamdani now fears a primary fight will hurt the party. Therefore, he spoke up to keep Democrats united.
What Led Zohran Mamdani to Speak Out
First, Zohran Mamdani got elected with strong DSA support. Moreover, Chi Osse served as his campaign surrogate. Osse helped rally grassroots voters in Brooklyn. However, Osse now plans to challenge Congressman Hakeem Jeffries. As a result, Mamdani fears a split vote in 2026. He believes division could hand victory to rivals. Thus, he urged DSA members to think carefully before endorsing Osse.
Next, Mamdani highlighted his duty as mayor-elect. He must serve all New York residents. Therefore, he wants stability from his allies in Congress. He argued that a primary fight could weaken Democratic message in Washington. Additionally, he stressed teamwork over personal ambition. In fact, he said unity builds stronger campaigns.
What Happened at the Meeting
Members gathered in a small Brooklyn hall. The room buzzed with chatter and applause. First, a local organizer welcomed Zohran Mamdani. Then he took the stage. He spoke clearly and with calm confidence. He thanked the crowd for their support. After that, he shifted to his main point. He asked them not to endorse Osse’s bid. He urged them to wait and watch how the field shapes up.
Some members nodded in agreement. Others shifted in their seats. After his talk, several people raised their hands. They asked questions about party unity and strategy. Mamdani answered each in simple terms. He said, “Let’s pick our battles wisely.” He reminded them that “we win when we stand together.”
Background on Chi Osse and the DSA
Chi Osse once built his reputation as a student activist. He worked in Brooklyn schools and city politics. Later, he joined Zohran Mamdani’s campaign team. There, he led youth outreach efforts. Osse became a rising star among local progressives.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Socialists of America grew in New York. The group backed several winning candidates. They helped Mamdani win his race. Now, they face a choice. They must decide if they want to back Osse over Jeffries.
How Zohran Mamdani’s Message Could Shape 2026
Zohran Mamdani hopes his plea will slow Osse’s momentum. If DSA holds off, Osse may rethink his challenge. Consequently, Jeffries could run unopposed in the primary. Such unity might help Democrats keep their House seat. On the other hand, if DSA endorses Osse anyway, the primary could heat up. In that case, alliances might shift. Moreover, money and volunteers could split between camps.
Therefore, Mamdani’s words carry weight. As mayor-elect, he earned trust from many progressives. His stance may sway DSA leaders and local clubs. Yet some activists still feel Osse offers a bold new voice. Thus, a debate is likely to follow. In fact, DSA chapters might vote in coming weeks.
Why This Matters for Voters
For everyday New Yorkers, this debate feels distant but vital. A heated primary can drain funds and energy. It can also distract from key issues like housing and health care. Moreover, a public split can confuse voters. As a result, turnout may drop in the general election. Therefore, both sides need to weigh the benefits and costs of a fight.
In the bigger picture, the outcome will echo beyond Brooklyn. It could signal how progressives choose candidates elsewhere. If they prioritize loyalty, they may back incumbents. If they favor fresh faces, they may risk internal battles. Either choice shapes the future of the left in American politics.
What Comes Next
First, DSA chapters will hold meetings to discuss endorsements. Then, local members will vote on whether to support Osse. Meanwhile, Chi Osse will build his case to DSA. He will highlight his plans and record. Furthermore, Osse may point to new supporters outside the DSA. At the same time, Zohran Mamdani will meet other party leaders. He will argue for unity and caution.
Ultimately, the decision rests with DSA members. They will weigh Mamdani’s call against Osse’s vision. As a result, the coming weeks promise lively debates. Regardless of the outcome, this episode shows how progressive politics works in New York. It also reveals the power of endorsements and alliances.
In the end, both Mamdani and Osse share many goals. They both want affordable housing and better schools. Therefore, many hope they can find common ground. That way, they can work together on key issues. Otherwise, a bruising primary fight may leave both sides weaker.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Democratic Socialists of America?
The DSA is a political group that supports progressive candidates. It has local chapters across the country.
Why did Zohran Mamdani ask DSA not to endorse Chi Osse?
He worried a primary challenge could split Democratic voters and weaken the party in 2026.
Who is Chi Osse?
Chi Osse is a former activist and campaign aide. Now, he plans to run against Congressman Hakeem Jeffries.
What could happen if DSA endorses Chi Osse?
A heated primary could divide resources and attention. It might also lower voter turnout in the general election. Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/11/19/mamdani-pleads-directly-with-nyc-dsa-to-not-back-chi-osses-run-against-hakeem-jeffries/