Former CNN News Anchor Announces Run for Congress

John Avlon, previously known as a CNN News anchor, has submitted paperwork to compete for a seat in the House of Representatives subsequent to his departure from the liberal network on February 8. Federal Election Commission (FEC) records indicate that he intends to vie for the Democratic nomination in New York’s 1st Congressional District. Avlon’s choice to pursue a congressional bid follows his retirement from CNN, where he served as a prominent anchor and senior political analyst.

Avlon’s move aligns him with a group of Democratic contenders aiming to challenge incumbent New York Republican Representative Nick LaLota, currently in his inaugural term in the House. LaLota assumed office following the tenure of former state GOP congressman Lee Zeldin, part of a cadre of twelve New York GOP newcomers instrumental in the Republican shift in Congress in 2022.

Avlon, renowned for his tenure as editor-in-chief at The Daily Beast, began his affiliation with CNN in 2010. Initially making intermittent appearances on the liberal network, he transitioned to a full-time role in 2018, rising to prominence as one of CNN’s most recognizable figures.

The ex-network political commentator and presenter will compete against Craig Herskowitz, a former New York City administrative law judge with ties to the administration of former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo. Additionally, Avlon will face off against former New York Senator James Gaughran and Nancy Goroff, an organic chemist who entered the race after losing to Zeldin by an 11-point margin in 2020.

Although some doubt Avlon’s likelihood of victory and his ability to oust LaLota, numerous political experts argue that it is premature to make definitive forecasts. The 1st Congressional District of New York encompasses Suffolk County and the eastern region of Long Island, widely regarded as one of the pivotal swing seats in the nation.

In his video declaration, Avlon expressed his determination to assist the Democratic Party in reclaiming control of Congress from what he referred to as the followers of former President Donald Trump’s “Maga” movement. He emphasized concerns over the peril facing the nation’s democracy.