New York City councilman Chi Ossé, representing Brooklyn’s 36th district, may be planning to run against incumbent Democrat Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, who is serving as House minority leader, local media have reported, despite Ossé’s previous assertions to the contrary. In addition to being openly queer and a socialist, Ossé is a practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism.
Known for his progressive politics, Ossé has earned a reputation through his activism and his unapologetic support for New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. After Mamdani won his mayoral victory, defeating former New York governor Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa, Ossé was enthusiastic about the win.
Mamdani’s win created political momentum for progressive politics in New York City, and some political insiders believe this could help Ossé mount a challenge in the 2026 primary against Jeffries, who has served in congress since 2013. Ossé’s progressivism would be a stark change from the centrism for which Jeffries is known.
However, when Ossé was asked about a potential primary challenge, he denied the rumors, stating: “Just to be clear, I’m not running for Congress.” (Axios) In other statements, the councilman has seemed to be at least a little open to the possibility, stating that he would only run for congress under “very dire” circumstances. (KJAMS 105.3)
An unofficial poll circulated by political insiders showed that Jeffries led Ossé by 50 points in a hypothetical primary election.
Insiders have stated that Mamdani has urged Ossé to refrain from challenging Jeffries for his seat in the US House of Representatives out of fear that the campaign could serve as a distraction, taking focus away from broader goals in the progressive movement.
The New York Times reported that this disagreement was the reason that Ossé was not seen at Mamdani’s election-night watch party, citing two anonymous sources.
Ossé endorsed Mamdani in his run against Cuomo and Silwa for mayor, so the turn of events was surprising for people within the party.
When asked about his future goals, Ossé stated: “I’m focused on delivering for my constituents in Brooklyn.” (Axios)
Ossé described the interplay between his Buddhist practice and his daily life: “I think a lot of people when they hear someone’s a Buddhist, assume they’re really nice or really calm, not aggressive. Those aren’t traits I’d use to describe myself.” (The Daily Caller)
Nichiren Buddhism was founded in Japan in the 13th century, and is one of the largest schools of Buddhism in the country. It teaches that the core of the Buddha’s teachings can be found in the Lotus Sutra.
Ossé’s dedication to Buddhism, queerness, and socialism make him standout in the New York political sphere, and insiders believe he has the potential to attract more young people to the Democratic Party.
This summer, Ossé joined the far-left Democratic Socialists of America. Previously, he was not a member of the party and had not received their endorsement, despite his strong progressive views.
Nationally, the Democratic Party has begun moving to the left, with progressive candidates challenging centrist Democrats in the primaries. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jamaal Bowman were successful in their bids to unseat incumbents. If Ossé decides to challenge Jeffries, it would be a strong test of progressive ideals in the Democratic Party.
For now, Ossé remains a city councilman in Brooklyn.
See more
Queer Buddhist Socialist Reportedly Plans To Primary Hakeem Jeffries (The Daily Caller)
Scoop: Mamdani ally weighs challenging Hakeem Jeffries (Axios)
Progressive Chi Ossé considers primary challenge against Hakeem Jeffries: ‘Dire situation’ (KJAMS 105.3)
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