An ultra-progressive Brooklyn city councilman who recently rejoined the Democratic Socialists of America has launched a campaign committee to challenge House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in the 2026 Democratic primary—a rare intraparty bid against a top Democrat.
On Monday, the FEC received a Statement of Organization for “Chi Osse for Congress,” confirming 27-year-old Councilman Chi Ossé’s run in New York’s 8th District. The seat is currently held by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who has represented the district since 2013.
Ossé was the youngest council member elected in 2021. He also identifies as queer. In a recent interview with the New York Times, he stated he had been “hearing a lot of concern about Democratic Party leadership” which is why he has informed political allies that he plans to run during the 2026 midterms.
Ossé also told NYT: “It’s a big part of why I worked so hard to get Zohran elected and defeat the establishment’s champion, Andrew Cuomo.”
His move comes despite opposition from NYC mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who has privately urged him not to run, fearing it could upset the fragile peace between far-left and moderate factions as he advances his agenda. The rift reportedly led to Ossé being excluded from Mamdani’s election night celebrations.
Ossé, known for his strong social media presence and youth-focused messaging, has also drawn notice for his personal beliefs. In February, he told Brooklyn Paper he was raised practicing Nichiren Buddhism and has been reconnecting with it this year. Nichiren Buddhism “is one of the largest schools of Japanese Buddhism,” according to Brittanica.
“A lot of people… assume [Buddhists are] really nice or really calm, not aggressive. Those aren’t traits I’d use to describe myself,” said Ossé.
Ossé’s bid underscores rising discontent among progressives. An Axios survey found fewer than one-quarter of Democratic House hopefuls committed to backing Jeffries. Candidates cited his delayed endorsement of Mamdani, weak messaging against President Trump, and failure to prioritize healthcare reform. It’s unclear if Ossé will win formal DSA support. Although he recently rejoined, sources told The Times that his limited tenure could affect an endorsement. He’s set to meet with the DSA’s electoral working group in the coming weeks.
Jeffries, who hasn’t faced a competitive primary since 2012, dismissed talk of a challenge in October, saying, “You know that’s not a serious question based on everything coming out of Brooklyn.” His spokesperson says he remains focused on opposing GOP legislation, fighting gerrymandering, and preparing to retake the House in 2026.
Chi Ossé, a 27-year-old democratic socialist on the NYC Council, is pressing ahead with a primary challenge against Hakeem Jeffries despite Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani urging him not to run.
Jeffries’ team responded by saying they welcome the challenge and look forward to a… pic.twitter.com/ixqxWzw4fw
— Timcast News (@TimcastNews) November 17, 2025
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