Adriano Espaillat Loses Democratic Nomination for NY Congressional District 13
Representative Adriano Espaillat has lost the Democratic nomination for New York’s 13th Congressional District, ending his run as the party’s candidate for the seat. With 85.9% of the vote counted, challenger Darializa Ávila Chevalier secured the nomination with over 31,500 votes, surpassing the approximately 29,000 votes cast for the incumbent.
Did You Know? Adriano Espaillat, who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2016, originally arrived in the United States from Santiago de los Caballeros in the 1960s on a tourist visa.
Significance of the Primary Results
The defeat of Espaillat marks a transition for the 13th District, which covers portions of Upper Manhattan and the western Bronx. Espaillat is currently the leader of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and has held his seat for three consecutive terms. Throughout his tenure in Washington, he has served on the House Committees on Foreign Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Small Business.

Before his time in Congress, Espaillat established a legislative record in New York state government. According to reporting from LISTÍN DIARIO, he was instrumental in passing legislation regarding affordable housing during his time in the State Assembly. While serving in the State Senate, he supported a critical agreement to maintain rent regulations for one million apartments.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the loss of a sitting Hispanic Caucus leader suggests a significant shift in local political dynamics. The transition from an established incumbent to a new candidate like Ávila Chevalier, who is also of Dominican origin, indicates that voters in the 13th District are opting for new representation despite Espaillat’s history of housing advocacy and committee seniority.
What Happens Next
Following this primary defeat, Espaillat will complete his current term in office. The year 2028 is expected to be his final year representing the district. As the electoral process moves forward, the seat will transition to new leadership, marking the end of an era for the congressman who has held the position since 2016.

Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Democratic nomination for the 13th District?
Darializa Ávila Chevalier won the nomination, receiving more than 31,500 votes compared to Espaillat’s approximately 29,000.
How long has Adriano Espaillat served in Congress?
Espaillat has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2016 and is currently in his third consecutive term.
When will Espaillat officially leave office?
Based on the election results, 2028 will mark the final year of his tenure as the representative for the 13th District of New York.
How might the change in leadership impact the ongoing housing and infrastructure initiatives previously supported by the outgoing congressman?