There was a lot of drama in the 9th congressional district Tuesday as U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke narrowly beat her opponent Adem Bunkeddeko in the primary for the Democratic nomination.
The race for the Republican nomination was uncontested, Clarke will be facing Lutchi Gayot (R) in the general election.
According to the unofficial election results, Clarke received 51.9% of the vote, with 14,804 total votes. Her opponent received 48.1% of the vote, with 13,729 total votes.
The race was centered around Bunkeddko challenging Clarke’s history in Congress, claiming the Congresswoman hasn’t achieved much in her time in Washington, while Clarke accused her opponent of fabricating claims that she hasn’t achieved anything.
Clarke also challenged her opponent’s lack of experience (Bunkeddeko is 29), and claimed he didn’t have an understanding of the legislative process.
“This campaign is my recommitment to making sure the people of the 9th congressional district are served and served well. Even with this great victory, we cannot rest on our laurels, we still have great work to do,” Clarke said, “And because today we are at a crossroads, we are under an administration that is really challenging this nation right now, let’s call it what it is, a really tyrannical time. We are confronted with an assault on our rights on a daily basis.”
Clarke said she is dedicating her reelection bid to people from all walks of life.
“Whether we are working people, people of color, women, immigrants or anyone who believes in their heart in the tenants of fairness and opportunity for all, we all share in the sobering awareness that we are in the fight of our lives,” she said.
Bunkeddeko could not be reached for comment at post time.
The 9th congressional district, located entirely in Brooklyn, includes the neighborhoods of Brownsville, Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Kensington, Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Midwood, Sheepshead Bay, Marine Park, Gerritsen Beach and Prospect Lefferts Gardens.
The general election is Nov. 6.
