Brad Lander, NYC’s departing fiscal chief, launches a US House bid with Zohran Mamdani’s backing

New York City’s Comptroller Brad Lander Challenges Rep. Goldman for Congressional Seat

Brad Lander, New York City’s chief fiscal officer, announced Wednesday his candidacy against incumbent U.S. Representative Dan Goldman in the upcoming Democratic primary. Lander will compete for the liberal district encompassing lower Manhattan and portions of Brooklyn’s brownstone neighborhoods.

A veteran progressive figure in city politics, Lander launched his campaign with significant endorsements from Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. His announcement emphasized a commitment to providing “courageous leadership in the face of Donald Trump’s attacks on New Yorkers.”

In his campaign video, Lander took aim at wealth inequality, stating, “While the oligarchy drives the affordability crisis, they shouldn’t be able to buy a seat in Congress.” The comment appeared directed at Goldman, an heir to the Levi Strauss denim fortune who has represented the district since 2023.

The race highlights growing tensions within the Democratic Party in New York. Lander emphasized his alliance with Mamdani, whom Goldman declined to endorse during the mayoral race, partly due to differences regarding Israel. “Our mayor can have an ally in Washington instead of an adversary in his own backyard,” Lander said, adding, “I’m running for Congress because the challenges we face can’t be solved with strongly worded letters or high-dollar fundraisers, and not by doing AIPAC’s bidding.”

Mamdani’s endorsement marks his most significant entry into national politics since his unexpected mayoral victory. The mayor-elect praised Lander, saying, “Brad’s unwavering principles, deep knowledge, and sincere empathy are what make him a true leader. He has been a trusted ally and partner of mine and I’m proud to support him.”

Political analysts note this challenge comes amid a broader progressive movement to contest moderate Democratic incumbents in the 2026 election cycle. Lander and Mamdani previously endorsed each other during the mayoral primary, using the city’s ranked choice voting system to counter former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s campaign. Their strategic alliance proved beneficial for both candidates – Mamdani gained credibility among progressive voters while Lander, who is Jewish, helped shield Mamdani from criticism over his stance on Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Lander’s term as city comptroller concludes on December 31, after he opted not to seek reelection. He previously considered challenging Goldman after losing the Democratic mayoral primary to Mamdani earlier this year.

Both candidates have been outspoken critics of federal immigration policies. They’ve made appearances at Manhattan’s immigration court to observe proceedings in recent months. Lander’s activism led to two arrests and a pending misdemeanor obstruction charge from one incident.

Goldman, now in his second term, brings credentials as a former federal prosecutor who served as lead counsel during Donald Trump’s first impeachment. Despite his wealth, Goldman has advocated for higher taxes on affluent Americans and supported the Green New Deal climate initiative. While supporting Israel, he has criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and condemned violence by settlers in Palestinian territories.

Responding to Lander’s announcement, Goldman campaign spokesperson Maddy Rosen stated, “Dan is focused on stopping the Trump administration from what they’re doing to immigrant families in his district right now. He’s proud of his progressive record in Congress and will deal with Brad and other challengers in the new year.”

Lander’s campaign video took an unusual approach by referencing beloved children’s TV host Fred Rogers, with Lander singing, “Would you be mine? Could you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor?” He added, “I know it’s corny, but I love the idea that democracy is just neighbors working together to make our lives in common better.”

The primary contest highlights the ongoing ideological divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly regarding economic inequality, foreign policy, and immigration – issues likely to remain prominent throughout the campaign.