New York Democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier was arrested Thursday by New York City police while protesting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan. She was among roughly 250 demonstrators who gathered outside U.N. headquarters for the protest.
Avila Chevalier defeated incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat in the Democratic primary for New York’s 13th Congressional District and is heavily favored to win the seat in November. Backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, she is one of several democratic socialist candidates who scored primary victories this cycle and is expected to join the House’s left flank alongside the Squad.
This behavior puts the entire Democratic Party at risk of losing even more voters.
Avila Chevalier Defends Her Arrest
In a statement to City and State New York, Avila Chevalier made clear she had no intention of staying silent during Netanyahu’s visit. As the Democratic Nominee for New York’s 13th Congressional District, I refuse to allow a war criminal to roam the streets of our city unchallenged,” she said. You can read more about the Avila Chevalier protest arrest as details continue to emerge.
“I refuse to play host to a man who has overseen the slaughter or injury of more than 64,000 children in Gaza with American taxpayer dollars,” she added. Her arrest came after a primary campaign in which she pushed to cut off U.S. military support for Israel.
Other Public Figures Taken Into Custody
New York City Council Member Chi Ossé was also arrested alongside Avila Chevalier, according to PIX11. Ossé directed his criticism at U.S. policy, telling the station, “I’m sick and tired of my taxpayer dollars going towards an active genocide.”
The detentions extended well beyond elected officials. Actor Hannah Einbinder, whistleblower Chelsea Manning and comedian Caleb Hearon were also taken into custody by New York police, according to The Guardian. Politicians and entertainers were present throughout the crowd of approximately 250 protesters.
What Comes Next for NY-13
Avila Chevalier remains the strong favorite in November’s general election for the heavily Democratic 13th District, meaning Thursday’s arrest is unlikely to derail her path to Congress. Her protest appearance and the attention surrounding her detention could further energize the progressive base that carried her through the primary.
Whether the arrest draws a formal response from House Democratic leadership or affects her standing heading into the new congressional term remains to be seen. For now, she has shown no sign of backing away from her stance on U.S. policy toward Israel.
However, it’s clear that voting for Democrats in any city is likely the wrong idea for the future.
