Highlights
- Zohran Mamdani becomes NYC’s first socialist, Muslim, and South Asian mayor.
- Defeats Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa in a historic three-way race.
- Promises “a city we can afford” and declares victory as “a mandate for change.”
- Donald Trump reacts sharply, warning of funding cuts.
- Mamdani’s $10 billion progressive agenda faces challenges in Albany.
A Historic Win for the Left
New York City made history on Tuesday as voters elected Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state assemblyman, as the city’s new mayor. Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, defeated independent candidate Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa to become the first socialist, Muslim, South Asian, and one of the youngest mayors in the city’s history.
The Associated Press and NY1 called the race just 40 minutes after polls closed at 9 p.m., sparking loud celebrations at Mamdani’s campaign watch party in Brooklyn.
“A Mandate for Change”
In his victory speech, Mamdani declared:
“New York, tonight you have delivered a mandate for change, a mandate for a new kind of politics, a mandate for a city that we can afford and a mandate for a government that delivers exactly that.”
“Grow smarter, not harder — ঝামেলামুক্ত অনলাইন ব্যবসার শুরু করুন Storola দিয়ে “
He also celebrated what he called the end of an era:
“My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty. I wish Andrew Cuomo only the best in his private life but that [will be] the final time I utter his name.”
Taunts Toward Trump
Zohran Mamdani didn’t shy away from challenging former President Donald Trump, who had backed Cuomo in the election.
“So Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching I have four words for you: turn the volume up,”
he said, as the crowd erupted in cheers.
Trump later reacted on Truth Social, writing:
“…AND SO IT BEGINS!”
The Numbers and the Turnout
According to the New York City Board of Elections, Mamdani received 50.4% of the votes, while Cuomo got 42% and Sliwa trailed behind with 7.1%.
Nearly 2 million New Yorkers voted, marking the highest turnout since 1969.
From Underdog to Mayor-Elect
Born in Uganda and raised in Queens, Mamdani started his campaign as a long-shot candidate focused on affordability. His platform included free buses, universal childcare, rent freezes, and city-owned grocery stores. Despite his limited experience, he gained strong grassroots support through social media and youth-driven campaigns.
His victory video, posted online, showed subway doors opening with the message:
“Next stop is City Hall.”
Read More: Rumeen Farhana Misses Out, BNP Finalizes Candidates in 4 of 6 Brahmanbaria Seats
A Divided Democratic Party
Zohran Mamdani’s win revealed deep divisions within the Democratic Party. Many establishment Democrats, including Chuck Schumer and Barack Obama, declined to endorse him. However, he later received support from Governor Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Cuomo, who spent $12 million on his campaign, conceded defeat but warned of unrealistic promises:
“This campaign was the right fight to wage. It’s also important to note that almost half of New Yorkers did vote to support a government agenda that makes promises that we know cannot be met.”
Criticism and Concerns
Mamdani faced criticism for his anti-police stance, tax-the-rich policy, and strong criticism of Israel, which led to accusations of antisemitism.
The UJA Federation expressed disappointment, stating:
“We cannot ignore that the Mayor-elect holds core beliefs fundamentally at odds with our community’s deepest convictions and most cherished values.”
Business leaders also expressed fear that his socialist policies could harm the city’s economy.
Curtis Sliwa’s Emotional Concession
Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa finished third and delivered an emotional concession speech, warning Mamdani against weakening law enforcement.
“Let me warn the new leader, if you try to implement socialism, if you try to render our police weak and impotent, if you forsake the people’s public safety, we’re not only organizing, but we are mobilizing.”
Echoes of Obama’s Rise
Civil rights leader Al Sharpton compared Mamdani’s energy to Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign:
“Not since the election of Barack Obama in 2008 have voters been this energized or hopeful about a candidate.”
Challenges Ahead
Mamdani’s $10 billion progressive agenda will face significant hurdles in Albany, where Governor Hochul and state lawmakers hold key budget powers. While some Democratic leaders signaled willingness to collaborate, Hochul has already said she will not support tax increases.
Swearing-In and Legacy
Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as mayor on January 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m.
He will be the first immigrant mayor since Abe Beame in 1974, and the second youngest in city history after John Purroy Mitchel, who became mayor in 1914 at nearly the same age.
Source: New York Post
