New York City Council Member Erik Bottcher has launched his bid for Congress, joining a packed 2026 Democratic primary for the seat long held by Jerry Nadler. Bottcher, 46, is the race’s only out gay candidate, raising nearly $700,000 in his first 24 hours. Citing his survival as a closeted teen, he says New York City saved his life. Bottcher vows to fight for LGBTQ+ rights, noting, “We’ve never actually had one of our own at the table. Our community is under attack in terrifying ways, and it’s time to take the gloves off.” He pledges to take on GOP corruption, cruelty and chaos.
