Lander has secured the backing of New York’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who originally ran against him but later endorsed him, reinforcing a joint progressive stance.

The pair are aligned as progressive allies, with Lander eyeing a challenge to Goldman after losing the Democratic mayoral primary to Mamdani earlier in the year, and their campaigns portraying a friendly, nerdy persona.

Lander frames Goldman as part of an oligarchy tied to Levi Strauss wealth, arguing their influence fuels affordability crises and suggesting they shouldn’t be allowed a seat in Congress.

Goldman and Rep. Jerry Nadler previously visited 26 Federal Plaza to observe immigration proceedings, and Goldman has pushed legislation to limit federal agents from arresting immigrants at court appearances.

Lander’s campaign highlights include exposing alleged FEMA funds theft, reducing fraud to save taxpayers money, divesting from fossil fuels, and investing in affordable housing.

The profiles of Lander and Goldman differ in background and wealth, but both share a history of opposing ICE actions and advocating immigrant protections.

Goldman has faced criticism from some progressives for strong defenses of the Israeli government, a point of contention within the left.

Lander’s biography features a notable June incident where he was detained while trying to escort an asylum seeker out of a federal building, highlighted to underscore his willingness to challenge authority.

Lander launched his campaign with a video and social posts portraying leadership against Trump and promising to protect immigrant neighbors, with a nod to Fred Rogers and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood to signal a relatable, neighborly tone.

The NY-10 seat is represented by Rep. Dan Goldman, who says he’s focused on federal issues and has no ill will toward Lander.

Brad Lander, New York City’s outgoing comptroller, is running for Congress in New York’s 10th District, marking his move from City Hall to the federal stage.

Lander has high-profile endorsements from Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Jumaane Williams, and others, plus backing from the Working Families Party.