Rep. Ritchie Torres is facing a primary challenge from former Democratic National Committee Vice Chair Michael Blake, who is zeroing in on Torres’ outspoken support for Israel and the donations that stance has attracted.
Blake — a former state assemblyman and recent New York City mayoral candidate — announced his campaign Wednesday, telling NBC New York that Bronx residents deserve a representative focused on affordability and basic needs.
- Advertisement -
“I’m running for Congress because the Bronx deserves better than Ritchie Torres,” Blake said in an interview shared with POLITICO. “People need help with the cost of living, with groceries — but Richie is using his platform to support a genocide.”
Speaking from a Bronx food pantry, Blake framed Torres’ vocal advocacy for Israel as out of touch with district priorities, tapping into a divide among Democrats as progressives nationwide mount challenges to incumbents ahead of next year’s midterm elections.
Blake launched his campaign with a video accusing Torres of prioritizing Israel’s prime minister over Bronx constituents, though he has not yet revealed details about his campaign team or fundraising operation.
Torres, however, enters the race with a formidable financial advantage. He has amassed a $14.4 million war chest, according to recent filings, making him one of the strongest fundraisers in the House.
Torres spokesperson Benny Stanislawski dismissed Blake’s bid, saying in a statement that the challenger is “not interested in the Bronx” and is merely using the borough to mount yet another run for office.
“The result will be the same as before: another loss,” Stanislawski said. “Bronx voters trust Ritchie Torres. He has been their champion — focused on public housing, affordability, and standing up to Donald Trump. That’s why he’ll win again next year.”
Blake, meanwhile, avoided committing to supporting Rep. Hakeem Jeffries for House speaker should Democrats retake the chamber, a stance that could further complicate his relationship with party leadership. Jeffries faced his own criticism from the left this year after delaying his endorsement of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
Torres, a high-profile figure in New York politics, has become a favorite among pro-Israel activists and donors. But his unwavering support for Israel during the war in Gaza — including statements critics called incendiary — has triggered increasing backlash from progressives. He has recently softened some of his rhetoric.
Torres abandoned earlier plans to challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul and is instead seeking reelection in the deep-blue district he secured easily last cycle after running unopposed in the primary.
This article was produced in collaboration with NBC 4 New York. NBC 4 reporter Melissa Russo contributed to this report.
