Bronx Uprising: public Defender Yvette Nemorin Launches Primary Challenge to Rep. Ritchie Torres
Bronx, NY – November 21, 2024 – Public defender Yvette Nemorin officially launched a Democratic primary challenge today against incumbent Rep. Ritchie Torres,setting the stage for a potentially contentious battle for New York’s 15th Congressional District.Nemorin, a member of the New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (NYC-DSA), aims to unseat Torres, who is seeking reelection after considering a run for governor.
Nemorin’s campaign is fueled by a desire for “a new type of representation, a new type of Democrat, a new type of leadership,” echoing the recent success of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. She noted Mamdani’s strong performance in the Bronx, where he defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo by 11 points in the general election, as a source of optimism.
Torres, a prolific fundraiser, previously entertained the idea of a 2026 primary challenge against Gov. Kathy Hochul, publicly criticizing her before ultimately reversing course and endorsing her for reelection. He has faced scrutiny for accepting contributions from the American Israel public Affairs Committee and supporters of former President Donald Trump.
Nemorin is exploring the possibility of securing an endorsement from NYC-DSA, acknowledging the institution is strategically allocating its resources. However, she emphasized that her campaign will involve numerous DSA members regardless of a formal endorsement.
Torres’ spokesperson, Benny Stanislawski, dismissed the challenge, stating, “Bronx voters trust Ritchie Torres to be their voice fighting for them in Washington as he is a lifelong resident who has delivered real results for the community. Ritchie has been laser-focused on issues like public housing and affordability while standing up to Donald Trump. That’s why he’s going to win again next year.”
Other potential primary challengers include former Assembly Member Michael Blake, who lost to Torres in the 2020 Democratic primary; and progressive organizer Jose Vega, who ran against Torres as an independent candidate in 2024. Andre Easton, a public school teacher affiliated with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, has also announced a longshot independent run.
