There’s a televised debate tonight between U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney and Suraj Patel, her challenger in the upcoming Democratic Primary.
As we have previously reported, Patel is taking on the 25-year incumbent in the 12th Congressional District, which includes sections of the Lower East Side. Maloney is one of several establishment Democrats across the country facing primary challenges from activists on the left newly energized in the Trump era.
The debate will take place at 7 p.m. on NY1. Patel’s campaign is also hosting a watch party at Mary O’s (32 Avenue A) beginning at 6 p.m.
Patel, 34, is a hotel executive, NYU professor and former Obama campaign advance man. He has nearly matched Maloney in fundraising, and is making the case that the district deserves more energetic and progressive leadership. The congresswoman has lined up a slew of endorsements, from fellow elected officials and local activists.
The primary takes place June 26.
