Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, has been elected Mayor of New York City — a stunning political upset that puts him in charge of America’s largest metropolis.
Mamdani, who becomes the city’s first Muslim mayor, defeated former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in a fiercely contested race that drew nationwide attention.
The election was called shortly after polls closed at 9 p.m., with turnout hitting its highest level for a mayoral race since 1969. Over two million New Yorkers cast their ballots before voting ended.
Born in Uganda, Mamdani’s meteoric rise from a relatively unknown state assembly member to New York City’s mayor-elect has shaken the political establishment. Many analysts say his victory signals a major ideological shift in urban American politics.
Former President Donald Trump labelled Mamdani a “communist” during the campaign and warned that his administration might cut federal funding to the city if Mamdani won, after endorsing Cuomo.
A poll showed unease among residents, with 9% saying they would “definitely” leave the city if Mamdani won, and another 25% saying they would “consider” relocating — a potential economic blow for the city of 8.5 million people.
Despite the controversy, Mamdani’s victory marks a historic moment for New York City — combining youth, diversity, and progressive politics in one of the most watched elections in the United States.
