Jamaican-American elected officials Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and Assemblymember Brian Cunningham delivered commanding performances in Tuesday’s Democratic primary elections, securing decisive victories and reinforcing their political influence in Brooklyn.
According to updated results from the New York City Board of Elections, both incumbents cruised to re-election in contests that attracted heightened community engagement and extensive voter outreach efforts. The outcomes underscore their continued popularity in districts where Democratic primaries often serve as the most consequential electoral battlegrounds.
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In New York’s 9th Congressional District, Clarke won overwhelmingly, capturing 29,342 votes, or 68.68 percent of ballots cast. Her nearest challenger, Mike Goldfarb, received 6,521 votes, representing 15.26 percent, while Joshua Bristol secured 6,314 votes, or 14.78 percent. The results were reported with nearly 98 percent of scanners counted.
Following her victory, Clarke celebrated with supporters and delivered a triumphant address alongside community liaison Eli Slavin, thanking constituents for their continued confidence in her leadership and representation.
Meanwhile, in the closely watched race for New York State Assembly District 43, Cunningham secured an equally convincing victory over challenger Ahron Gluck. Unofficial results showed Cunningham receiving 9,345 votes, accounting for 79.67 percent of the vote, while Gluck garnered 2,293 votes, or 19.56 percent. Write-in candidates collectively received 91 votes.
The Assembly contest drew significant attention across Crown Heights amid competing endorsement campaigns and intensified efforts to boost voter participation. Political observers noted that the race highlighted the growing influence of several demographic groups within the district, particularly as community organizations worked to mobilize voters ahead of the primary.
Preliminary analyses suggest that a substantial portion of Gluck’s support came from the Jewish community in Crown Heights, while additional backing originated from progressive voters seeking a change in representation. However, Cunningham’s broad coalition ultimately proved insurmountable.
Community activist Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, who publicly endorsed Cunningham, welcomed the outcome and praised the assemblymember’s relationship with local residents.
“Brian has been a true friend to the Jewish community, and tonight we showed that we stand by those who stand by us,” Behrman said. “We look forward to working together for many more years.”
The victories further solidify Clarke’s and Cunningham’s standing within New York politics, while reflecting the enduring strength of Jamaican-American leadership in Brooklyn’s diverse and politically active communities.
Election officials are expected to certify the final results following the completion of the vote-counting process.
