John Avlon, a former CNN anchor, declared his candidacy for New York’s 1st congressional District on Wednesday, stating that he believes democracy is at risk.
Avlon, in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), expressed his intention to run in order to safeguard democracy and unite a diverse coalition against the leading GOP candidate, former President Trump.
Avlon also pledged to prioritize rebuilding the middle class, investing in infrastructure, safeguarding women’s reproductive rights, and addressing climate change.
His statement was made a mere two weeks following his departure from CNN, a network he joined in 2010 and transitioned to a full-time role in 2018.
It's official: I'm running for Congress in #NY01 because there's too much at stake for the country & community I love. Long Island families deserve someone who fights for their values, not Trump's. It's time for us all to get off the sidelines. Join Me. https://t.co/fMu8RdLyBL pic.twitter.com/RHWAam8yif
— John Avlon (@JohnAvlon) February 21, 2024
He previously served as the editor in chief of The Daily Beast and played a key role in establishing the moderate “No Labels” movement.
Avlon is now part of a competitive group of Democrats aiming to challenge first-term Rep. Nick LaLota (R), who won his seat alongside other New York Republicans in the 2022 midterms, contributing to the GOP’s control of the House.
The 1st District of New York has a Cook Partisan Voting Index of R+6.
Avlon is set to participate in a competitive Democratic primary alongside former state Sen. James Gaughran, former New York City administrative law judge Craig Herskowitz, who previously served in Andrew Cuomo’s administration, and Kyle Hill, a health care policy specialist and former senior legislative aide.
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