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Gen Z Challenger Raises $340K on First Day in Bid to Unseat Rep. Nadler

Liam Elkind has won endorsements from Reid Hoffman, Dan Doctoroff, Rafael Espinal, framed as a test of fresh Democratic leadership before the 2026 midterms.

Liam Elkind will challenge incumbent Rep. Jerry Nadler in the democratic primary for New York's 12th congressional district.
Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) speaks at a news conference in Lower Manhattan on June 18, 2025. Photo: Spencer Platt/Getty Images
Rep. Jerry Nadler at a press conference in New York last summer. Photo: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-NY, first elected in 1992, has served in Congress longer than primary opponent Liam Elkind, 26, has been alive. Nadler is one of 30 Democratic House members over the age of 75. (ALEX BRANDON/AP FILE)

Overview

  • Elkind officially launched his primary challenge on July 30 and reported more than $340,000 in first-day fundraising, surpassing Nadler’s entire last quarter haul.
  • The 26-year-old nonprofit CEO secured backing from LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and former New York City officials Dan Doctoroff and Rafael Espinal.
  • Elkind’s campaign argues that Nadler’s age and experience make him less equipped to counter President Trump and drive party renewal.
  • Nadler’s spokesman pointed to the congressman’s legislative record since 1992 and affirmed his intention to serve until he decides to retire.
  • The contest highlights a growing trend of younger Democrats targeting senior incumbents over age and party readiness ahead of the 2026 midterms.