US rep. Dan Goldman says support for ‘Israel’ led to defeat in NY primary

US Representative Dan Goldman, a Democrat from New York’s 10th Congressional District, lost his bid for renomination in the June 23, Democratic primary to former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander. Lander secured a decisive victory with approximately 64 percent of the vote to Goldman’s 36 percent.

In post-election interviews, Goldman stated that his support for ‘Israel’ was a primary factor in his defeat.

Goldman said his loss "really did come down" to his support of ‘Israel’, in an interview with CNN on Tuesday.

The two-term congressman, who is Jewish and has described himself as a proud Zionist, faced intense criticism from progressive voters over his positions on US military aid to ‘Israel’ and his refusal to describe ‘Israel’s’ military actions in Gaza as genocide.

The contest highlighted deep divisions within the Democratic Party over the ‘Israel’-Gaza conflict.

Lander, a progressive candidate, campaigned vigorously against Goldman’s ties to pro-‘Israel’ groups such as AIPAC and his votes in favor of military assistance.

Lander positioned himself as a “liberal Zionist” while advocating for Palestinian human rights and criticizing ‘Israel’s’ conduct in the war.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani provided significant backing to Lander, contributing to a broader success for progressive challengers in several New York primaries.

Goldman, an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune who gained prominence as a lead counsel in the 2019 impeachment proceedings against former President Donald Trump, was endorsed by establishment figures including Governor Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Analysts noted that the district, encompassing parts of Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan and home to a substantial Jewish population, became a focal point for debates on US policy toward ‘Israel’.

Goldman attempted to balance progressive values with support for ‘Israel’, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while opposing cuts to military aid. Nevertheless, these nuances appeared insufficient to counter progressive mobilization.

Goldman acknowledged the influential role of Mamdani’s endorsement and progressive organizing in the outcome. The loss marks the fifth defeat of a House incumbent in the 2026 primaries, reflecting voter discontent and shifting dynamics within the party.

Lander is heavily favored to win the general election in the heavily Democratic district.