NYC-CC08: Elsie Encarnacion leads in District 8 Democratic primary, poised to succeed Diana Ayala
Elsie Encarnacion, chief of staff to outgoing City Council Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, is in a strong position to win the Democratic primary for New York City Council District 8, after emerging with a commanding early lead in a competitive, seven-way race.
According to preliminary results from the New York City Board of Elections, Encarnacion secured 28.7% of first-choice votes in the June 2025 primary, ahead of public interest attorney Wilfredo López, who received 18.3%, and Clarisa Alayeto, chair of Bronx Community Board 1, who earned 15.3%. The final outcome will be determined through the city’s ranked-choice voting system, but Encarnacion’s early advantage—combined with her institutional support—positions her as the likely winner.
The race to represent District 8, which includes portions of the South Bronx and East Harlem, drew a diverse slate of candidates seeking to succeed Ayala, who is term-limited after two terms. Encarnacion entered the race with more than a decade of experience in city government, along with a well-organized campaign bolstered by major endorsements.
Throughout the campaign, Encarnacion focused on issues such as affordable housing, youth programming, and support for small businesses—core priorities shaped by her years in public service and local advocacy. Her platform and resume resonated with voters across the district, as did her ability to build coalitions among labor unions, progressive groups, and political clubs.
https://www.bxtimes.com/elsie-encarnacion-leads-in-district-8-democratic-primary-poised-to-succeed-diana-ayala/