Brad Lander Announces Congressional Bid Against Incumbent Dan Goldman
New York City, Wednesday, 10 December 2025.
NYC Comptroller Brad Lander declared his run for Congress, challenging Dan Goldman with support from Zohran Mamdani. His campaign video features a tribute to Fred Rogers, emphasizing community and democracy.
Lander’s Political Journey and Allies
Brad Lander, who has served as the New York City Comptroller since January 2022, formally announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives on December 10, 2025. Lander is set to challenge the incumbent, Daniel Goldman, in the Democratic primary for New York’s 10th Congressional District, which includes parts of Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. His campaign is marked by notable endorsements from prominent progressive figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, with whom Lander has closely aligned himself in recent political campaigns [1][2][3].
Campaign Themes and Strategies
Lander’s campaign emphasizes his progressive values and dedication to social justice issues, as highlighted in his launch video. The video, which references Fred Rogers of ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,’ underscores the theme of community and democracy, with Lander singing a snippet of the show’s iconic theme song. This approach aims to resonate with voters by highlighting Lander’s commitment to community engagement and his vision for a more equitable society. The video also criticizes the influence of wealthy individuals in politics, a subtle jab at Goldman’s affluent background [1][3][4].
Goldman’s Current Tenure and Political Stance
Daniel Goldman, currently serving his second term, has been recognized for his progressive policy initiatives, including support for Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. His tenure is marked by a firm stance against the Trump administration’s immigration policies, reflecting a commitment to defending immigrant rights within his district. Goldman, a former prosecutor, has focused on legislative efforts to protect nonviolent migrants from arrest during court proceedings, showcasing his dedication to civil rights and social justice [3][5].
Looking Ahead to the Democratic Primary
The upcoming Democratic primary in 2026 is poised to be a competitive race, with Lander’s entry adding a dynamic challenge to Goldman’s incumbency. Both candidates share progressive values but differ in their political strategies and alliances, which could shape voter preferences in New York’s 10th District. As the campaign unfolds, the endorsements and political narratives each candidate cultivates will play a crucial role in swaying the electorate. The primary will serve as a litmus test for the broader political climate within the Democratic Party, particularly in the context of ongoing national debates on economic inequality and immigration reform [2][4][5].