Race for new representative in the 13th Congressional District heads to voters
Voters shape future of the 13th Congressional District, choosing a representative for the first time in nearly a decade.
More Stories
Voters across parts of the Bronx and Upper Manhattan are heading to the polls to decide who will represent New York’s 13th Congressional District, marking the first time in nearly a decade that the seat is open.
The contest pits Republican candidate Manuel Williams, an Army veteran, against Democratic Socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier. Avila Chevalier advanced to the general election after defeating five-term incumbent Congressman Adriano Espaillat in June’s Democratic primary, ending his long tenure representing the district.
At a polling site in Kingsbridge Heights, 25-year-old Steven Monje was eager to cast a ballot, arriving more than 30 minutes before the site opened.
“I’m more of an early bird, so I got to just do it as soon as possible,” Monje said.
When asked what issues matter most to him, Monje said his focus is on the community.
“Top of mind is people first. Anything that is helpful towards the community and the people is what matters most. Because at the end of the day, people is what creates the change,” he said.
Avila Chevalier, a Dominican-American activist, gained attention after unseating Espaillat in the Democratic primary. She was also one of three congressional candidates endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, with all three candidates winning their respective primaries.
Her Republican opponent, Manuel Williams, has kept a relatively low public profile throughout the campaign. According to his platform, Williams is a Harlem native and business owner who lives and works within the district.
Polling sites will remain open until 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
