It’s primary season in the Bronx, and one of the most closely watched races is in New York’s 15th Congressional District. Former Assemblyman Michael Blake is challenging incumbent Rep. Ritchie Torres, arguing the borough needs new leadership.

Blake is seeking to represent the district he grew up in, positioning himself as an alternative to Torres.

“We need to lower the price of rent, groceries and gas,” Blake said, adding that he believes the ongoing conflict in Israel is contributing to rising costs. “We have to end this war, a war that Richie supports.”

When asked what keeps bringing him back to public service, Blake said voters are looking for someone who will stand up for them.

On the campaign trail, Blake says affordability dominates nearly every conversation.

“It’s too expensive,” he said. “You have people trying to figure out the side of between groceries and gas in 2026… What keeps moving back is that the people want something different.”

Asked how he would balance advocating human rights abroad while addressing urgent needs at home, Blake said the two are connected. “They’re one and the same,” he said. “As an immigrant, I don’t get to turn off my feelings on these issues… As a U.S. member of Congress, it is your job to bring changes here and also make sure what’s happening internationally impacts us here for the better.”

For voters still deciding whether to trust him with the role, Blake pointed to his long ties to the community.

“You want to protect immigrants and reject ICE. You vote for Michael Blake,” he said.

Early voting begins June 13, and Election Day is June 23.