Who Is Running in New York Congressional District 8th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Hakeem Jeffries
(Incumbent)Economy
HighDemocratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries states that Democrats' top focus is to drive down the high cost of living. He criticizes the previous administration's policies, citing a 13% increase in electricity bills and cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Jeffries also opposes the elimination of tax credits for renewable energy, arguing such actions reduce electricity supply.
Immigration
HighHakeem Jeffries advocates for significant reforms to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He calls for an independent investigation into DHS actions, a ban on the deportation of American citizens, and improved warrant procedures. Jeffries emphasizes that taxpayer funds should not be used to target law-abiding immigrant families or brutalize American citizens, citing the need to protect constitutional rights.
Healthcare
HighHakeem Jeffries strongly supports extending Affordable Care Act tax credits to lower healthcare costs and fix the healthcare system. He led a bipartisan discharge petition that resulted in a House vote to extend these subsidies, aiming to prevent dramatically increased premiums, copays, and deductibles for millions of Americans. He urged a "yes" vote on this legislation, emphasizing his commitment to protecting healthcare.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Hakeem Jeffries |
|---|---|
| Economy | Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries states that Democrats' top focus is to drive down the high cost of living. He criticizes the previous administration's policies, citing a 13% increase in electricity bills and cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Jeffries also opposes the elimination of tax credits for renewable energy, arguing such actions reduce electricity supply. High |
| Immigration | Hakeem Jeffries advocates for significant reforms to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He calls for an independent investigation into DHS actions, a ban on the deportation of American citizens, and improved warrant procedures. Jeffries emphasizes that taxpayer funds should not be used to target law-abiding immigrant families or brutalize American citizens, citing the need to protect constitutional rights. High |
| Healthcare | Hakeem Jeffries strongly supports extending Affordable Care Act tax credits to lower healthcare costs and fix the healthcare system. He led a bipartisan discharge petition that resulted in a House vote to extend these subsidies, aiming to prevent dramatically increased premiums, copays, and deductibles for millions of Americans. He urged a "yes" vote on this legislation, emphasizing his commitment to protecting healthcare. High |
| Climate & Energy | Hakeem Jeffries demonstrates a strong record of supporting environmental protections, as evidenced by his 97% lifetime score and 100% score in 2025 from the League of Conservation Voters. He consistently votes against legislation that aims to weaken environmental safeguards, such as the "Homeowner Energy Freedom Act" and the "Don't Mess With My Home Appliances Act" in 2026. He also voted against measures that would limit environmental review or defund energy efficiency programs. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Hakeem Jeffries supports reproductive rights, affirming that individuals should have the freedom to make their own health care decisions. He views the overturning of Roe v. Wade as an assault on freedom and the Constitution, citing the need to protect access to reproductive health care. He has condemned proposals that he describes as attacking abortion coverage and supported House-passed legislation aimed at protecting abortion access nationwide. High |
| Foreign Policy | Hakeem Jeffries has voiced opposition to President Trump's handling of war powers concerning Iran, indicating a desire for congressional oversight in military actions. He also criticized the Department of Defense's potential use of artificial intelligence for mass surveillance of American citizens, asserting that such actions represent a significant invasion of privacy. High |
| Education | Hakeem Jeffries emphasizes education reform and values a first-rate education, stating that every student must have the opportunity to excel in the classroom for America to compete globally. He views a good education for children as integral to the American dream. Medium |
| Gun Policy | Hakeem Jeffries advocates for policies to reduce gun violence, including closing background check loopholes, banning assault weapons, and funding community violence intervention programs. He supported the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which included enhanced background checks for those under 21, and also voted to support the Protecting Our Kids Act and H.R. 8, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act. He states that addressing gun violence is a high priority for his caucus to keep Americans safe. High |
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