EXCLUSIVE: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries endorses Rep. Ritchie Torres for re-election
Mar 16, 2026
U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries endorsed Rep. Ritchie Torres on Monday in his bid for re-election to represent New York’s 15th Congressional District, which covers a large portion of the Bronx. Jeffries, who leads House Democrats as minority leader, praised incumbent Torres’ record representing the borough. Torres has represented the district in Congress since 2021 and previously served on the New York City Council, representing the 15th District from 2014 to 2020.
“Ritchie Torres is an extraordinary fighter for the Bronx and for everyday New Yorkers,” Jeffries said in a statement to the Bronx Times. “He shows up, delivers and never backs down from a tough fight. The Bronx deserves a representative with Ritchie’s tenacity, track record and commitment to getting real results for working families.” As the top Democrat in the House and one of the most influential members of New York’s congressional delegation, Jeffries’ endorsement carries significant weight in a crowded primary.