Brooklyn City Councilman Chi Ossé, 28, is reportedly being positioned by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to challenge Senator Chuck Schumer in the 2028 New York Senate race. Ossé, known for his progressive and often controversial political stances, recently spoke at a DSA event in Kingston, New York, expressing a sense of urgency among socialist activists to accelerate their push for political power.
During the event at a local bar, Ossé declared that the period of waiting for political change had ended, emphasizing the need for socialists to take immediate action. His remarks follow a pattern of outspoken statements, including a 2021 comment suggesting that “a cis white man should not be the next speaker of the council,” which he later defended with a now widely noted phrase, “Woke 1 was crazyyyy.” This phrase has recently been echoed by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), who is reportedly contemplating a presidential bid, adding an element of speculation about a broader left-wing challenge to established Democratic leadership.
Assemblywoman Sarahana Shrestha, a Mid-Hudson Valley DSA member who also spoke at the event, criticized Schumer for his ties to the technology sector, arguing that socialists are better equipped to confront Big Tech’s influence. Shrestha indicated that the DSA is actively encouraging Ocasio-Cortez to consider a 2028 presidential run, though she acknowledged the personal toll such a campaign might take on the congresswoman’s life.
Ossé did not directly confirm his Senate ambitions when approached but underscored the need for socialist representation to oppose what he described as a failure by current Democratic leadership to adequately address growing social and political challenges. His political trajectory includes a withdrawn bid to challenge House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in 2024, which was reportedly discouraged by the DSA to avoid undermining Ossé’s political progress and the mayor’s policy agenda.
Known for his progressive policy proposals, Ossé has supported initiatives such as government-run electricity and the city’s controversial ban on broker fees in the housing market—a move critics say contributed to a sudden rise in rents. He has also drawn attention for provocative language and controversial remarks on social issues, including sharply critical statements regarding Israel and racially charged commentary on public interactions.
Despite his grassroots appeal within certain left-wing circles, political analysts express skepticism about Ossé’s viability in a statewide race. Veteran Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf characterized him as a divisive figure whose past comments could alienate key voter blocs, including Jewish communities and business interests, suggesting that Ossé’s current outreach may be more of a preliminary test of his potential than a definitive campaign launch.
Ossé’s background contrasts with his political rhetoric: he attended a prestigious private school and has familial ties to the entertainment industry, with relatives who have represented high-profile figures in hip-hop and produced Grammy-winning music. His social associations include appearances alongside celebrities at prominent cultural events.
Neither Ossé, Ocasio-Cortez, Schumer, nor the DSA has provided official comment on the reports of Ossé’s potential Senate challenge or related political strategies.