Bill Maher expressed strong criticism of Darializa Avila Chevalier during his show ‘Real Time with Bill Maher.’ He targeted the recent Democratic primary winner of New York’s 13th Congressional District. Several of Avila Chevalier’s views have drawn significant scrutiny post-election.

During a monologue, Maher highlighted an interview where Avila Chevalier did not explicitly agree that a convicted murderer should be jailed. Maher stated, ‘The New York Times asked her, ‘If someone murders someone randomly, should they go to jail?’ She wouldn’t commit to a yes.’ He suggested that this reflects a broader issue, referring to it as a ‘woke mind virus.’

‘Her name is Darializa Avila Chevalier,’ Maher added, associating her with this trend.

Avila Chevalier, 32, achieved victory over Rep. Adriano Espaillat, securing 49.4% of the vote compared to Espaillat’s 45.9%. Public comments on the United States and her stance on kneeling during the congressional oath have also been points of contention. ‘She claims the United States, the nation she intends to serve, is occupied native land and has called America a disgrace,’ said Maher, also noting her plan to kneel during the oath.

Avila Chevalier’s stance on handling murderers aligns with her abolitionist views, focusing less on incarceration and more on systemic causes of crime. ‘The murder’s occurrence is tragic and reflects circumstances created by systemic failures,’ she remarked.

Her opposition to deportations is clear, expressing, ‘Deportation is unjust, solely punishing individuals based on their place of birth.’ Her platform includes ‘Abolish ICE,’ ‘Medicare for All,’ and a ‘Babies, not Bombs’ initiative. She seeks to end the deportation system and reduce military spending abroad.

The New York Times characterized Avila Chevalier’s agenda as supportive of abolishing the police, borders, and prisons. They report her proposals extend to seizing landlord properties.

Fox News has tried reaching Avila Chevalier for comments, though a response has not been received.

CJ Womack, the associate editor at Fox News, contributed to this report. He joined the Fox News Digital team in 2026. CJ has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Journalism from Long Beach State University.