Residents of New York’s 13th Congressional District are prioritizing public safety as they prepare for the upcoming midterm elections on November 3. Concerns about crime and neighborhood conditions have emerged as key issues for voters in this predominantly Democratic district, which encompasses parts of Upper Manhattan and the Bronx.
Vianny Brito, a 32-year-old immigrant from the Dominican Republic, expressed her worries about the influence of public behavior on her children, saying, “The children are like photocopies. They learn everything they see.” Brito cited examples of drug use in public spaces as a serious concern while discussing how safety will shape her voting decisions.
The district, home to a significant Dominican population, recently experienced a contentious Democratic primary, where progressive candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat. Espailat was noted for being the first Dominican-American elected to Congress. As early voting commenced on October 24, community members expressed a desire for their next representative to focus on local issues such as public safety, housing affordability, and job opportunities.
While many voters remain proud of their Dominican heritage—28% of the district’s population identifies as Dominican—there is a prevailing sentiment that quality of life improvements should take precedence over identity politics. Residents have voiced mixed feelings following the primary, with some expressing concerns over Avila Chevalier’s previous comments regarding Dominican nationalism, which were interpreted by some as disrespectful to the Dominican flag.
Rosa Castillo Rodríguez, a 60-year-old voter, conveyed her discontent, stating that she identifies with Espaillat and took Avila Chevalier’s comments personally. In contrast, Brito defended Avila Chevalier’s remarks, interpreting them as an exploration of the complex relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, with hopes of reducing hostility.
Bélgica Valerio, a long-time Marble Hill resident, also placed emphasis on public safety and mental health resources. She recounted feeling anxious after a troubling incident involving a stranger on the train. “There are people like us who go out to work and do not know if we will make it back home,” Valerio said.
As local leaders address safety concerns, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced the expansion of the Crisis Management System to several neighborhoods within the district. He emphasized that effective public safety initiatives must focus on conflict prevention and resource availability. “Public safety is strongest when it begins with prevention and when communities have the resources to resolve conflict,” Mamdani stated.
As Election Day approaches, discussions around public safety are likely to remain a central theme for candidates and voters alike, with many residents eager to see concrete proposals aimed at improving their communities.
