Former CNN anchor John Avlon announced his candidacy to flip the seat representing New York’s first congressional district.
Avlon announced his departure from CNN in early February after working 14 years as an anchor and senior political analyst. He announced early Wednesday that he is running in New York’s swing district to “defeat Donald Trump” and save democracy.
“There’s just too much at stake for the country and the community that I love,” Avlon said in a filmed announcement. “We need to build the broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump and defend out democracy and win back the House from his MAGA minions who don’t even seem interested in solving problems anymore.”
“Together, we can flip this seat. Together, we can rebuild the middle class, invest in infrastructure, protect women’s reproductive freedoms and combat climate change. Democrats can’t afford to lose this fight,” he continued.
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
Avlon is seeking to defeat Republican New York Rep. Nicholas LaLota in the upcoming election. LaLota won his congressional seat during the 2022 midterm elections after defeating Democratic candidate Bridget Fleming, according to Fox 5. He replaced former Republican New York Rep. Lee Zeldin after the politician stepped down to run for governor. (RELATED: ‘Hold On’: CNN Legal Analyst Spars With Pundit Who Claims Trump Can Be Knocked Off Ballot In Colorado)
The former CNN anchor was reportedly advised by former Democratic Rep. Steve Israel for months, according to Politico Playbook. Newsday’s Scott Eidler will conduct Avlon’s first interview as a congressional candidate.
Before joining CNN, Avlon previously served as the editor-in-chief and managing director of The Daily Beast, according to his LinkedIn account.
Avlon recently expressed his support for removing former President Donald Trump from the state primary ballots in Colorado and Maine under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which prohibits anyone from serving public office if they engaged in insurrection.