Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic Socialist of South Asian descent, is set to become the Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City and most likely the very first Muslim mayor of the city after a remarkable upset victory over former Republican Governor Andrew Cuomo in the party’s primary.
Election Results
Mamdani got 43.5% of the first-choice votes in the ranked-choice primary, leading with 432,000 votes. His arch-rival Cuomo followed with 36.4% (around 361,800 votes). After second-choice votes were redistributed, Mamdani remained ahead, effectively winning the nomination making Cuomo to not only concede but also congratulate him. Despite Cuomo’s massive name, recognition and campaign spending, Zohran’s grassroots momentum and effective campaign proved decisive.
Who is Zohran Mamdani?
Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda and moved to New York at the age of seven. It is important to note that he is the son of renowned academic Mahmood Mamdani and filmmaker Mira Nair. He got his Education in Africana Studies at Bowdoin College and right after he began his career as a housing counselor before being elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020, representing Astoria, Queens.
Mamdani ran a grassroots campaign, going door to door, backed by over 22,000 volunteers, focusing on important progressive issues and powered by small donations. Although Cuomo dominated early polls due to his recognition and heavy funding, Mamdani’s momentum surged boosted in the final weeks mainly due to his strong appeal among young, working-class as well as minority voters.
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Zohran on Gaza
His views on Gaza and Israel’s military operations against the commons of Palestine have drawn both attention and controversy. Mamdani boycotted Israel’s actions in Gaza calling it a “genocide”. In answer to question by famous journalist, Mehdi Hasan, he even stated that he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visited New York, showing his alignment with international law and human rights advocacy.
Zohran’s Policies
Mamdani has also given policy platform for the locals of New York City which includes fare-free buses, a freeze on rent-stabilized apartments, and a shift in public safety funding from police to community-based services. He has also proposed bold tax reforms, which aims to raise nearly $10 billion annually to fund basic public services including universal childcare, expanded school meals and social housing.
Victory Congratulations
It is important to note that Mamdani’s victory is widely celebrated not only in US but all over the world as a pleasant development in politics. He is being congratulated by many South Asian politicians and celebrities particularly from Pakistan. US top Democrats have also appreciated him not only for his victory but also for his struggle throughout his election campaign. Name like former President Bill Clinton and Bernie Sanders are important to mention.
General Elections
Now, the general election is scheduled on November 4 and Mamdani will face Republican Curtis Sliwa. But there are strong chances that Zohran Mamdani will win these elections quite comprehensively by outnumbering Republican’s Sliwa.
