Chief economist Rand to challenge Congressman Goldman

In breaking news out of New York on December 10, 2025, political ally of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, Comptroller Brad Lander, has officially announced his candidacy for the 2026 congressional election. Lander is set to challenge the incumbent Congressman Dan Goldman for the seat representing parts of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn in the 10th district (NY-10).

Reports from various media outlets indicate that Lander will kick off his campaign this Wednesday, December 10. With a long history in New York politics, having previously served as a City Council member, Lander also endorsed Mamdani in the recent mayoral primary. His bid for Congress reflects the ambition of progressive Democrats seeking to replace some establishment Democratic lawmakers through elections.

Following his announcement to run for Congress, Lander’s platform and stance lean towards progressive positions. He is known for his opposition to Trump policies and his involvement in protests on immigration and asylum issues, which has garnered him a solid base of support among voters who prioritize equality, social justice, and immigrant rights.

According to a recent poll, in a potential matchup between Lander and Goldman, Lander leads with 52% of support compared to Goldman’s 33%. This indicates that he holds a favorable position in the district and has a strong chance of securing the seat in the upcoming election.