Gaza emerges as a defining issue for Gen Z voters in New York Democratic primaries Submitted by MEE correspondent on Tue, 06/30/2026 - 15:30 Progressive victories across New York suggest opposition to Israel has become a powerful electoral issue for a new generation of Democratic voters New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Congressional candidate Claire Valdez embrace during a primary-night watch party on 23 June 2026 in Brooklyn, New York City (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images via AFP) Off For many young New Yorkers, the Democratic primaries were about far more than housing, affordability or public safety. Across the city, Gen Z voters rallied behind candidates who condemned Israel 's genocidal war on Gaza , helping propel three progressive Democrats endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani to primary victories.