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Progressives score big in Democratic primaries, exposing party rifts

A stunning upset over Cuomo’s ally reveals the growing power of the left. Can Democrats unite—or will infighting hand Trump an advantage?

There are group of people holding placards and walking. These are the trees. I can see small...
There are group of people holding placards and walking. These are the trees. I can see small bushes. This is the banner. I can see a building with name boards attached to it. These look like cars. I think these are the current polls.

Progressives score big in Democratic primaries, exposing party rifts

Progressives in the Democratic Party are celebrating victories in the primaries, notably Zohran Mamdani's win over former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, which has sparked a debate within the party. While the wins have excited progressives, they have also raised concerns among the party establishment.

Mamdani's comfortable victory, managed by Morris Katz, has led to criticism from the campaign team. Katz argued that the Democratic establishment has a poor understanding of what makes a candidate electable and lacks a pulse on voters' preferences. Democrats are now capitalizing on Election Day victories to call out party leaders for snubbing progressives.

Progressives and other Democrats agree that focusing on affordability and rejecting Trump's economic agenda was crucial to their success on Tuesday. However, some Democrats warn that alienating the left could cost them crucial House seats needed to counter President Donald Trump's agenda. Former President Barack Obama has urged Democrats not to impose litmus tests on different factions that won on Tuesday.

The progressive wing of the Democratic Party has criticized Senator Chuck Schumer for favoring centrist candidates, highlighting internal divisions within the party. U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego described these divisions as 'internal pearl clutching,' emphasizing that voters are more concerned with a candidate's ability to fight for them, understand their struggles, and be trustworthy. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin endorsed Zohran Mamdani, praising his ability to inspire people throughout New York. Some Democrats, including potential 2028 presidential hopefuls, have expressed frustration with the discussion on the divisions facing the party.

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