The Working Families Party endorsed Zohran Mamdani as their top choice in the NYC mayoral primary, aiming to consolidate progressive support against Cuomo, with implications for the general election and potential third-party candidacy if Cuomo secures the Democratic nomination.
Over 48,000 people in Wisconsin protested against the Biden administration's support for Israel's war on Gaza in the Democratic primary, signaling a growing discontent within the party. State representative Francesca Hong, a former Democrat voter, criticized the administration's prioritization of lives and its failure to stand for democracy and justice. The protest reflects a larger shift in the party's base, with progressive and younger voters feeling disillusioned and potentially turning away from the Democratic party. The administration's stance on the Gaza conflict could impact its support in critical swing states, urging a shift in course to win over voters.
Over 100 Democratic donors and activists, including some who have contributed six-figure sums to President Biden, have sent a letter warning that progressive anger over Israel's war in Gaza could increase the chances of a Trump victory. The letter reflects growing discontent within the Democratic Party over Biden's alignment with Israel's government amid the conflict, with donors expressing concern about alienating progressive voters.
Congressman Dean Phillips, who is running as an underdog against Joe Biden in the Democratic primary, is taking a more progressive stance on issues to appeal to younger and progressive voters. Phillips has criticized Biden for opposing marijuana legalization and suggested that Biden should try it himself. He has also criticized Israel's offensive against Hamas and called for a ceasefire. Phillips plans to release an economic platform that includes universal healthcare, paid family leave, a higher minimum wage, and the reinstatement of the expanded child tax credit. He has hired Jeff Weaver, a senior adviser to Bernie Sanders, to help with his campaign. While Phillips' strategy has prompted skepticism from progressives who view him as more conservative, he believes there is an opportunity to win over young, progressive, and independent voters dissatisfied with Biden's positions. However, Phillips faces an uphill battle as Biden remains the overwhelming favorite to win the nomination.