NEW YORK — New York City Council member Chi Ossé has filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to challenge House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in next year’s primary, setting up what could become one of the most closely watched congressional races in the country.
Ossé, 26, is a first-term council member representing parts of Brooklyn and is one of the youngest and only openly gay Black elected officials in the city. His campaign filing, submitted late last week, signals a surprising bid against one of the most powerful Democrats in Washington.
Jeffries, who represents New York’s 8th Congressional District, has not commented on the challenge. He is widely expected to run for re-election and enters the race with significant institutional support and name recognition.
Ossé rose to prominence through his activism during the 2020 racial justice protests and built a political base around issues including housing access, police reform and economic equity. His decision to run for Congress highlights growing generational and ideological divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly in urban districts.
If Ossé moves forward with a full campaign, he is expected to emphasize affordability concerns in New York’s outer boroughs and the need for younger voices in federal office. Political analysts say the race would be an uphill battle but could reshape conversations around representation and leadership within the party.
The FEC filing does not guarantee a formal launch, but it marks the first legal step toward a primary challenge. Ossé has not yet released a campaign statement or timeline for an official announcement.
