City Council contenders in the Upper East Side grapple with the influence of Carolyn Maloney during their race

In the crowded and expensive Democratic primary for New York City Council's District 4, a surprising development has emerged. Virginia Maloney, a newcomer to the race, officially entered the fray last fall, and her mother, Carolyn Maloney, a former Congresswoman and longtime East Side champion, has been actively supporting her daughter's campaign.

Carolyn Maloney, who served in Congress for 30 years, lost her seat in 2022 due to congressional redistricting. Since then, she has been involved in her daughter's City Council campaign, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by her rivals. One candidate was even told about Carolyn Maloney's involvement by an official from the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council.

The Hotel and Gaming Trades Council endorsed Virginia Maloney, a decision that some believe was influenced by Carolyn Maloney's involvement in the race. In a phone recording, a rival candidate thanked the union official for their candor, stating that not all endorsing groups, including unions, provide such transparency.

Virginia Maloney, in a Mother's Day social media post, emphasised her mother's support with siren emojis and all-caps writing. She also held a fundraiser in Washington D.C., which coincided with the unveiling of her mother's official congressional portrait, and was co-hosted by Carolyn Malony and her former chief of staff. Another fundraiser for Virginia Maloney, also listed Carolyn Maloney as a co-host.

Despite the controversy surrounding her mother's involvement, Virginia Maloney has been making her mark in the race. She has appeared at campaign events, including a candidate forum on Tuesday night held at the Roosevelt House. However, it remains unclear which other organisations have supported Virginia Maloney in her bid for the City Council, or the reasons for their support.

On the other hand, rival candidate Rachel Storch, who opted out of the public matching system, allowing her to spend without limits, has been a formidable competitor. One rival candidate in Council District 4 said, "Many days, it feels like I'm running against Carolyn Maloney."

As the Democratic primary in Council District 4 approaches, the race is heating up, with Virginia Maloney's mother's involvement adding a new twist to an already intriguing contest.

City Council contenders in the Upper East Side grapple with the influence of Carolyn Maloney during their race