Johnson warns communism is 'on our own shores' after far-left candidates win New York primaries
House Speaker Mike Johnson issued a sharp warning Wednesday about the growing influence of far-left politics in the United States, pointing to the victories of three socialist candidates in New York primaries as evidence that radical ideologies are gaining a foothold in American governance.
Speaking at a news conference, the Louisiana Republican said the outcomes of Tuesday's Democratic primaries should serve as a wake-up call for all Americans. The wins, backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America, represent a significant shift in the Democratic Party's direction, Johnson argued.
"It is a very serious time," Johnson said. "Every American needs to wake up and understand the threat. The insurgent left is on the rise."
Among the notable victories was Darializa Avila Chevalier, a 32-year-old activist who defeated Rep. Adriano Espaillat, a 10-term congressman who chairs the influential Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Espaillat had made history as the first former undocumented immigrant elected to Congress. Avila Chevalier, who participated in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, is expected to easily win the heavily Democratic district in November.
The other two winners were Brad Lander, who ousted Rep. Dan Goldman, and Claire Valdez, a state assembly member who captured an open House seat. All three candidates have voiced support for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, implementing a wealth tax, and taking a critical stance toward Israel.
Avila Chevalier has faced scrutiny over past social media posts that called for defunding police and prisons, expressed support for open borders, and claimed "Israel doesn't exist." She also previously referred to former President Joe Biden as "a rapist" and used vulgar language toward former Vice President Kamala Harris. When pressed by a publication called The New York Editorial Board about whether someone who committed murder should face jail time, she declined to answer directly.
Johnson specifically noted Goldman's defeat, highlighting that the Jewish incumbent had faced antisemitic attacks during the campaign over his support for Israel. Lander, who defeated him, is also Jewish but has pledged to advocate for the Palestinian cause in Congress.
"This is not your father's Democrat Party," Johnson said, framing the November elections as a choice between "commonsense and crazy."
The speaker also highlighted other races featuring socialist candidates, including Mai Vang, a DSA-backed candidate challenging longtime Rep. Doris Matsui in California. Vang has drawn criticism after videos emerged showing her declining to recite the Pledge of Allegiance or face the American flag during her tenure on the Sacramento City Council.
Johnson suggested these candidates represent a broader movement spreading beyond New York.
"There are mini Mamdanis popping up all around the country," he said. "It is a dangerous thing. This is not a joke. We're in a fight right now to save the Republic."
The warnings come as socialist commentators have celebrated the primary results. Far-left streamer Hasan Piker addressed a rally in Brooklyn for DSA-endorsed candidates earlier this month, saying the victories bring the country closer to achieving socialist policy goals.
"For the longest time, I thought we were so far away from socialism, and we might still be far away from socialism, but we do have an opportunity right here, right now, more than ever before," Piker said.