By Gus Saltonstall
Liam Elkind, an Upper West Side native, announced Wednesday that he is challenging Rep. Jerry Nadler in New York’s 12th Congressional District, which includes the Upper West Side.
The 26-year-old ended his campaign launch video by “respectfully asking” Nadler, 78, to consider retiring after serving more than three decades in Congress.
“I’m running for Congress because New Yorkers can’t wait. We can’t wait to fix the worst housing shortage in modern history,” Elkind said in a press release. “We can’t wait to protect our social safety net from being shredded by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans. And we can’t wait for leadership that meets this moment. We need a new generation of leaders with the energy and urgency to fight Trump right now, and the vision to defeat Trumpism for good.”
Elkind, who now lives in Chelsea, at the southern end of the 12th Congressional District, was born and raised on the Upper West Side. While still in college, he co-founded the nonprofit Invisible Hands during the COVID-19 pandemic. The group organized volunteers to deliver food, medicine, and other essentials to homebound New Yorkers.
West Side Rag covered Elkind and Invisible Hands multiple times in 2020, including in our piece — “Two Young People Devise a Simple Volunteer Delivery System.”
Elkind, 20 and a junior at Yale at the time, told the Rag, “I was so inspired by doctors fighting this thing at the front lines, putting themselves in harm’s way to save others. I knew it was my job to do what I could as a young, able-bodied person to help the cause.”
When asked about the challenge and Elkind’s focus on Nadler’s age, who will be running for his 18th term in Congress, a spokesperson for the Upper West Side representative’s campaign told CNN, “Congressman Nadler will stake his record of accomplishments against anyone. Unfortunately, with this individual, I don’t think there’s any record to speak of.”
On Thursday, Elkind’s campaign announced it had raised over $340,000 during its first day in operation.
You can watch his campaign launch video below.
I’m Liam Elkind.
Today, I’m launching my campaign for Congress.
Because the same playbook and the same leaders are not going to meet this moment. pic.twitter.com/SZn1HfQryw
— Liam Elkind (@liamelkind) July 30, 2025
Subscribe to West Side Rag’s FREE email newsletter here. And you can Support the Rag here.
I can think of all sorts of reasons for voting against Nadler (eg his Russigating), but can’t see voting against him because of his age.
Left the Nadler line blank in the 2024 general election.
I definitely CAN see voting against Jerrold Nadler because of his age. (I’m old, so I get to do that.)
Well I can !
I think there should be an mandatory retirement age limit for all our federal government agencies, including Congress/Senate/Vice Presidents and Presidents –
We need new young blood in our government federal and state level!
These people in government get too comfortable. Unchecked power in government can lead to corruption and greed big time among public officials.
I totally agreed!
It’s too much corruptness when people in government get too comfortable in their positions.
Congress is way out-of-line (on both sides) and take it for granted, they don’t even have time to read a bill.
Then why do we need them for? They don’t have the time to do the things they are therefore, it is total BS and I’m sick and tired of it, the educated America is sick and tired of it all. There should be a term limit and age of retirement, I believe Congress should change every four years like the president and the vice president and all government officials should retire at the retirement age of 67 years old, equally “men and women”!
But that’s an entirely different argument, one in no way specific to Nadler, the House, or 2026.
Nadler has had youngish challengers in the past. (EG, the right wing Oliver Rosenthal, whom Nadler handily beat for good reasons.)
The way to shake up complacency and ineffectiveness in government is through healthy, contested primaries and general elections, not term or age limits. I don’t think it’s in voters best interests to limit choice. I’m looking forward to a healthy and vigorous debate between Elkind and Nadler. Glad to see this race shaken up!
Defeating trumpism for good, what a plan for the UWS… Whatever that even means. Trump really gave these social justice warrior clowns a reason to exist…
He sure did. It’s good you realize he must be stopped.
Pertaining to our actual neighborhood streets, he must be stopped from doing what exactly? Aside from the usual empty virtue signaling progressives love to lecture everyone with. So instead of empty slogan like “he must be stopped”, maybe you can make sure to get a decent candidate in 2028 with a program that doesnt turn off a majority of the population.
Every one of us should be thinking about stopping the idea that you can make policy based on lies. It’s inevitable that this leads to bad policy.
Case in point, yesterday’s jobs data.
Case in point, lying about ‘millions of criminals’ amongst our undocumented population leading to shortages of essential workers in agriculture, construction, and home care among other sectors.
Case in point, lying about the reason for the loss of manufacturing jobs (Hint: it’s mostly automation) leading to tariffs that cost 100% of us to benefit under 5% of the workforce.
Case in point, lying about crime leading to the loss of civil liberties and the rise in bigotry we see all around us.
Good Luck Liam. You’re bucking the machine it aint gonna be nice.
He won’t “buck the machine.” He will replace it with the new machine—himself.
With 5 years of work experience, apparently for his own entity, and an Ivy League (Yale) degree he’ll perfect for the Mamdani-era NYC young Democrats who don’t remember 9/11 or anything that came BT (Before Trump). Good luck to him.
Agreed. Clearly he is super intelligent. And though I don’t see a lot of policy specifics (even on his web site), I’m sure he is generally fine. I am all for fresh perspectives but some more life experience would be helpful. It seems like he is skipping a few steps – cut your teeth at a lower level political position for a few years then pursue congress.
I am also very curious where he stands as to Mamdani, AOC, etc. I would rather not be responsible for another Fox News punching bag but rather someone a little more moderate focused on realistic solutions to core kitchen table issues, primarily for his direct constituents but also for all Americans.
I’d like to see more specifics as well. Part of the problem, especially here in NYC, is that very few people get the change to cut their teeth with local level politics. The machine keeps running the same people over and over again and our local politicians move from one office to another and then back again, Think about how our local council people serve their 2 terms, hand pick their successor, move on to another office (serve their 2 terms) and them come back to the same position there termed out once before.
Lots of people comment about how it is important for younger, potential candidates to get local experience but then keep voting for the same people over and over again because the other candidates “don’t have the experience.”
Fight Trump, democrats have such low standards, What are you for?
You’re right, it’s sad that we have to focus on ridding the world of this pestilence! MAGAs won’t do it.
My two cents – 1. Older people vote. Elkind will need older people’s votes. I would not have advised focusing so much on gerontocracy at the beginning. 2. Gen Z keeps bringing back the ugliest 70s and early 80s fonts. Please stop! The Cooper Black font does not need to come back. Some things were best left in the 70s.
Another 20-something who thinks he knows how to fix the world without having a real job, working for others – knowing the costs to running a home, a business, paying taxes,health insurance, etc. Sure, he can go to Washington and fight Trump! That will really help our country and our city and state.
He’s a Mamdani clone. Privileged, elite college degree, never had a real job, parents probably paying his bills…… but he absolutely knows how to fix everything.
No doubt he had a Che Guevara poster on his dorm room wall
And what REAL job has Nadler ever held?
Exactly. We need people with real life experience. Not another pie in the sky with no reality.
So nasty. He’s done a lot for our city
No intent to be nasty. The commentor made a big distintion between the real life experinces of both. Mr. Nadler has not had any more experience outside of Government. It was a very unfair commarison by the commentor. I voted for Nadler and might again, Just stop making any false commarisons.
If you need volunteers I’m available. New fresh insight is needed. Rep. Nadler R. I. P. (RETIRE IN PIECE)
No fan of Nadler staying at all. I am happy for whoever can come in with common sense and real world experience to make real tangible improvements..
We need to elect people who don’t believe New York City is stuck in a permanent 1970s where crime is a bigger crisis than the lack of housing.
Were you around in the 1970’s? You might have a different perspective if you had been. For UWSers, there was plenty of affordable housing back then. Crime WAS the bigger issue. It’s hard to forget that when you lived through the daily reality of violent robberies, assaults, burglaries, carjacks. it was hard to meet anyone who wasn’t a crime victim. We’ve come a long way, but it’s important to remember that a city that isn’t safe isn’t worth living in no matter how affordable the housing is.
That’s why the population went down
Good luck to this young man. Time for the older generation of leaders to step aside, Jerry is not the man for the job in the current era.
Liam you have my vote so long as you distance yourself from Mamdani. I AM DISGUSTED THAT NADLER ENDORSED MAMDANI. NADLER DOES NOT DESERVE TO REPRESENT US. SHAME!
Could you please express yourself without yelling?
And why so upset?
Liam ranked Mamdani on his ballot. https://forward.com/fast-forward/759496/liam-elkind-jerry-nadler-jewish-congress/
At least you’re staying calm 🙄
Sounds like exactly the same playbook. This isn’t any change.
Crime, scarcity of housing, homelessness and mental illness run amok, meltdowns on many sides … And still the resources and people of one of the world’s greatest cities. I am willing to give this young man a chance, to see what he can put together as avenues toward a better future.
Crime is not “running amok”. You can repeat the same myth over and over, doesn’t make it true.
I will NEVER support Nadler after his recent despicable and cowardly endorsement of Mamdani.
Elkind seems to be intelligent and passionate. I wish him well and he has my support to send Nadler packing.
How is it despicable and cowardly that Nadler endorsed Mamdani?
Elkind ranked Mamdani as well. Might want to get your facts straight before making such provably false comments.
Do you expect him not to also endorse Mamdani? Sadly, I would not hold your breath on that one.
Fast talker. Doesn’t say much. I’m voting for Jerry Nadler.
No. Just no.
That’s a lot of money to raise in one day by an unknown kid. Somebody with deep pockets is coming into our district to target Jerry. in the primary. Im sure it has nothing to do with him criticizing Netanyahu,
He also started a successful non-profit, which means he has good connections and/or he knows how to raise money.
The “successful” non-profit has now been folded into Common Point in Queens, according to the link. Before I’d consider voting for him, I’d like to know what he’s doing to earn a living or who’s supporting his lifestyle and his campaign. I’d like to know what he’s done politically; how he’s approached the problems of his proposed constituency. Handing out meals during Covid doesn’t strike me as a strong qualification for a Representative. I’d like to see new energy in Congress, but as of now I’m (to coin a campaign slogan) Lukewarm for Liam.
I am curious about who is financing him, and whether there is an anti-Mamdani/pro-Cuomo element in the mix.
I mean, he does have a point about Nadler arguably needing to call it a career. If you wait for these chronically institutional politicians to self-unelect, in many cases you’ll be waiting forever. So by all means bring it up and bring it up a lot.
Not much information about Liam Elkind, and I was hoping for more.
Click on the link to his website.
Finally. Someone willing to fight Nadler.
Apparently you’re not aware that Nadler triumphed, by quite a bit, in a highly contested primary in 2022.
Good for him. The dems need to fight Trump at every point. However I think the dems will spend more energy trying to teach this young kid a lesson.
I’ve always supported Jerry and am thankful for his service. And yet, I must agree that it’s time for younger leadership. I’m 70 and I would urge Liam to get rid of the nasty elder-rhetoric, as Mamdani, who I also support, has done.
Flashy. Isn’t it.
I can think of two reasons to vote for Liam: age–not Nadler’s but Liam’s, He has the energy and sense of mission that the Democrats need. the second reason? His campaign ad. As a ad agency Mad Man, it can tell you that it is a very well done communication. The Democrats need candidates who know how to use social media effectively and can make a powerful argument in their campaign advertising. He shows that capacity. OH, a third reason? what he did during the pandemic. that alone speaks volumes for his leadership and youthful energy.
“We can’t wait to protect our social safety net from being shredded by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.”
Already insulting Republicans?
Look at the map. 77 million don’t agree.
I would add that Nadler has been one of the most active Reps fighting Drumpf’s cuts to the social safety net. So why is this being used as an issue AGAINST him? And while it may not have accomplished much tangibly (due to the GOP Senate), Nadler also led the charge on impeaching Drumpf – twice – as Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg of what he has done. He was one of only six Reps to vote AGAINST the Iraq War, and has been a consistent voice for his constituents for his entire tenure.
As long as my aging body will get my to a voting booth, I will vote for Nadler, as he, as much as or more than anyone, has proven himself over and over during his tenure.
Nadler should have been mentoring new leaders like this, not competing — he needs to step aside and has for a long time.
Elkind seems to embody the new Progressive style, as described here: https://firstthings.com/mamdani-and-the-new-phase-of-wokeness/?vcrmeid=MNdMVH0okK13QqopQLAA&vcrmiid=vggP4PrVeU2LpeB35rM6kw
I don’t know if I would vote for this candidate — he does seem a little too light on experience — but I do urge Rep. Nadler to retire gracefully after a laudable career he can be proud of. I’m 81 and a big believer in the older generation getting out of the way of the up-and-comers. We lose too many generations of talented people to incumbents who can’t give up the prestige and perks of elected office and have stacked election politics to over-favoring incumbents. Do the right thing, Jerry!
Omg omg love it!!!!! 10000% voting for him!
Nagler’s age should not be a factor.
The more experience the better.
false
I know Liam. He’s probably one of the kindest, smartest, most empathetic people I know. He’s from a good New York family, has stable ties to the community, helped people get fed during the Pandemic, took care of Thousands of New Yorkers… This is how and where it begins. Stop trying to kill the future. Leave a space for other voices. I’m excited for Liam and I celebrate this. What courage it must take to try for something this big she so many people just want to spout their hatred. Good Luck, Liam. You have my vote.
And his “good family” helps how?
Many good politicians come from backgrounds of hardship often without a “good family” and have a passion to advocate for others.
Thanks, Mom! L.E,
I’m not his mom. Ridiculous comment.
OK, but what does he stand for?
What are his positions?
I met Liam several years ago through his work during the pandemic helping seniors stay safe. He’s truly one of the smartest, most caring, most civic minded people I’ve ever met. Exactly the energy we need to meet this moment in politics. I have great respect for Nadler, but I agree it’s time to hand over the baton. Very excited for Liam!
My mother is all of those things too. She would make a terrible member of Congress.
Can you shed light on what his politics are?
You have my attention.
Good luck, Liam!
Representative Nadler has been sleepwalking through the last couple of decades until recently, when perhaps he knew he might face a primary.
This is not a good time to replace Nadler, a highly experienced and dedicated congressman with a novice who has absolutely no experience. Nadler has time and time again proven that he is dedicated to our community and has fought every fight on our behalf with vigor and savvy. We can’t afford to lose the experience that Nadler brings to the table, Not at this most critical time. New, for the sake of new, or young, for the sake of young, is not wise in this climate.
Is it time for new younger blood in Congress? Yes. Should Nadler retire? Yes. That being said… I really don’t know what Elkind’s proposals are… beside get rid of Trump and build more housing (great soundbites). I would be interested in learning more about him before any decision is made… but it would be nice if there was some 30 or 40 year old with work experience to fill the gap between the two. Also, is he voting for Mandami bc I don’t like him or his policies for nyc so that’s a no go for me.
A 30 or 40-something is EXACTLY what is needed with true life experience, paying bills, paying taxes, working hard and understanding costs, health insurance, small businesses, home insurance. Real things.
Time for Nadler to retire. NO doubt about it..
Good luck to Liam. We need to welcome the younger generation into politics.
Wish he was four years older—I’d rather see him replace Chuck Schumer!
Here is info on his positions from his website:
https://www.liamelkind.com/meet
There is something about working in Congress that I don’t see mentioned here, and that is networking and relationship-building. Put aside issues of age. Who is better equipment to represent the district? The one who has a network of friends and enemies (because in Congress you need to work with both). Even on a local basis, you need to have relationships with an enormous amount of people.
My vote goes for Nadler unless a candidate can prove themselves otherwise.
Exactly the thinking that got us here.
Here’s the important part:
“His bagel order is an untoasted everything bagel with whitefish salad.”
Thank you, Mr. Elkind. I was a recipient of groceries via Invisible Hands at a time when I was too sick to do anything for myself. I will never forget, and will forever be grateful. May you step up with integrity that is never lost, and be guided by wisdom no matter what gets thrown at you. As for teh age issue: Age doesn’t matter as long as one is willing and able to put in their all for a job well done, for one and all.
Any info re Elkind work history following Yale.
SOMEONE ELSE — PLEASE STEP UP ! ! !
https://x.com/zeteo_news/status/1948016983066251360 Sorry guy – it takes more than vibes to mount an alternative
Why don’t Elkind and other less experienced people make themselves essential to Nadler and other long timers campaigns.? Get a job working for them, learn all the not so exciting things that need to be done not just the big splashy hot button issues. I’d be happy to see a younger successor come through the ranks and succeed. The long timers might feel more comfortable stepping aside for a protégé who can still have their own agenda and not just mimic the mentor.
I got involved one time about 10 years ago. Went to a JN town hall. As his constituents were speaking, including me, he was conversing with one of his staff in the background, ignoring what was being said/requested, and letting staff member run the show/circus. Promised a meeting, I still had to contribute to a campaign and still failed to get a meeting as he had to flee to DC for a vote. End of concern that I had which may have helped, or maybe not, locally, but we will never know due to his/staff lack of concern for a constituent.
While age may not be a factor, giving a damn is. FYI: I’m 89.
78 is older than I’d prefer, but 26 is too young.
Nadler has served us well for many years but it’s time for him to go. Congress isn’t meant to be a convalescent home and too many (of both parties) stay well past their prime. He should retire and let the next generation take over. That said, this kid isn’t the answer. I’d prefer Nadler leave with dignity on his own terms and a robust primary take place.
A body like the U.S. Congress needs BOTH: the new, young energy, and institutional, historical knowledge and “memory.” In this regard, attempting to simply eliminate “older” members BECAUSE they are older (particularly without looking at their actual records) is not a good, effective or helpful strategy.
In this regard, Nadler is one of the LAST “older” members I would ever consider “forcing out” or asking to retire. His record is extensive and amazing. The number of thins he has done during his tenure to protect the “most vulnerable among us” (social safety net, etc.) is long and consistent. And his other accomplishments – from being one of only six members to vote AGAINST the Iraq War, and one of only a few members to vote AGAINST the Patriot Act, to leading the charge in impeaching Drumpf – not once, but twice – as Chair of the House Judiciary Committee to dozens of other important votes, choices, etc., – make him an invaluable member, despite his age. As long as he can “do the job” and serve his constituents (which he has done and continues to do well), there is no reason to be seeking his replacement.
In fact, there has rarely been a more effective federal elected official in the modern era.