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(TJV NEWS) Rep. Ritchie Torres is entering the 2026 Democratic primary season with a commanding lead over his challengers, according to a new poll reported by The Algemeiner.
The survey, released by left-wing group A Fight Worth Having and highlighted by The Algemeiner, shows Bronx voters continuing to back Torres despite growing criticism from the progressive wing of the Democratic Party over his strong support for Israel.
The Algemeiner reported that Torres is leading the race with 60% support.
His closest challenger, Michael Blake, received 15%.
Jose Vega trailed even further behind with just 7%.
The numbers show Torres holding a major advantage as the race begins to take shape.
Poll Shows Strong Support For Torres
According to The Algemeiner, the poll shows voters in New York’s 15th Congressional District remain firmly behind the congressman.
The Bronx-based district is one of the most heavily Democratic districts in the country.
The Algemeiner noted that Torres has built strong support through his work on public housing, anti-poverty programs, public safety, and fighting antisemitism.
That support appears to be outweighing attacks from progressive critics trying to paint him as out of touch with parts of the Democratic activist base.
Israel Support Remains Major Issue
The Algemeiner reported that Torres has become one of the Democratic Party’s strongest defenders of Israel since Hamas launched its October 7, 2023 terror attack.
He has frequently clashed with anti-Israel activists and members of the far-left over his outspoken support for the Jewish state.
That stance has made him a national political figure.
It has also made him a major target for progressive organizers looking to unseat him.
But according to The Algemeiner, the latest polling suggests those attacks are not connecting with many Bronx voters.
Voters Focused On Local Issues
The Algemeiner said many local voters appear more focused on everyday issues than online political battles.
Concerns like housing, public safety, and economic opportunity continue to matter most in the district.
The survey suggests many voters view Torres as an effective representative who delivers results for the Bronx.
The Algemeiner also pointed out that Torres won reelection comfortably in 2024, capturing more than 76% of the vote.
That overwhelming victory highlighted his strong standing with constituents.
Democratic Divide On Full Display
The race is shaping up as part of a broader fight inside the Democratic Party.
The Algemeiner reported that Torres represents a more pragmatic faction of Democrats pushing back against the party’s leftward shift on foreign policy and public safety.
Meanwhile, challengers like Michael Blake and Jose Vega are trying to rally progressive voters who oppose Torres’ positions.
The poll suggests traditional Democratic voters in the Bronx are still siding with Torres.
For now, The Algemeiner reports that the congressman remains the clear frontrunner as the 2026 primary race heats up.
