New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has defeated Democratic primary challenger Cynthia Nixon to win his party's nomination for a third term.
Cuomo had far greater financial resources going into the matchup, and polls suggested he held a commanding lead before Thursday's primary.
Nixon, an activist and former "Sex and the City" star, had hoped to become the latest liberal challenger to unseat a powerful insider.
Cuomo's campaign dismissed her as inexperienced and touted the governor's work to push back against President Donald Trump.
His victory comes despite several missteps, including a widely condemned mailer that questioned Nixon's support for Jewish people. Nixon has two Jewish children and called the attack "sleazy."
Cuomo will face Republican Marc Molinaro, Green Howie Hawkins and independent Stephanie Miner in November's general election. Nixon says she Andrew Cuomo to congratulate him.
She thanked her supporters Thursday at a primary night party in Brooklyn. She says the "blue wave is real" and is coming for Republicans and "Democrats who act like them."
Nixon says her campaign reflects an insurgent movement of liberals challenging establishment incumbents.
She noted that while many people dismissed her challenge, Cuomo took her seriously, as evidenced by the millions he spent on his campaign.
Nixon also said she and her supporters helped push Cuomo to the left on several issues, such as the legalization of marijuana.
She also claimed credit for putting pressure on Cuomo to address New York City's beleaguered subways
Copyright 2018 Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
