Nick LaLota

A series of victories by progressive candidates in New York City Democrat primaries shows that democratic socialists are increasingly driving the party's agenda, Rep. Nick LaLota said Wednesday on Newsmax.

The New York Republican told Newsmax's "Wake Up America" that "the Democrat Party is becoming the party of Zohran," referring to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. "This is not the party of [former Presidents John F.] Kennedy, [Bill] Clinton, or even [Barack] Obama. This is the party of Zohran, [New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] AOC, and [Vermont Sen.] Bernie Sanders."

LaLota's comments came after three progressive candidates backed by Mamdani won primary contests, including races that unseated incumbent Democrat lawmakers.

According to LaLota, the results demonstrate that candidates can no longer win Democratic primaries without support from the party's progressive wing.

"They are now the majority of that party," he said. "You can't win a primary in that party unless you have that radical support."

LaLota singled out Assemblymember Claire Valdez, accusing her of supporting policies such as nationwide rent control and government intervention in privately owned housing.

He also cited calls from other progressive candidates to reduce police funding and oppose deportations.

"They're moving towards this not only defund the police, but no police mantra," LaLota said.

The congressman warned that the political shift underway in New York could have implications beyond the city if similar candidates gain influence elsewhere in the country.

"If this thing spreads, America will not be what we know her to be," he said.

LaLota contrasted those policies with what he described as traditional Republican priorities, including lower taxes, stronger border security, support for law enforcement and a robust military.

Representing New York's 1st Congressional District, LaLota said Long Island Republicans have positioned themselves as a counterweight to progressive politics emerging from New York City.

"We have called ourselves the Firewall of Freedom for both New York State and America," he said.

Looking ahead to the midterm elections in November, LaLota argued that voters will face a clear ideological choice between Republicans and Democrats.

"There's never been a stronger contrast between the Republican and conservative ideology and the Democrat and liberal ideology," he said. "They're sure going off the rails these days."

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