New York: Zohran Mamdani’s historic election as New York City’s mayor marks a seismic shift in American politics, signalling a rejection of President Donald Trump’s policies and a boost for the Democratic Party’s progressive wing.
The 34-year-old Indian-origin Democratic socialist, born in Uganda to filmmaker Mira Nair and professor Mahmood Mamdani, secured 50.4% of the vote, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo (41.6%) and Republican Curtis Sliwa (7.1%), despite Trump’s explicit threats to cut federal funding if Mamdani won.
His victory underscores a growing discontent with Trump’s agenda and marks the first time a Muslim and South Asian mayor has been elected in the city’s history, as Democrats also clinched gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia.
Mamdani’s campaign, centred on affordability — promising free electricity, transport, and education — resonated with New York’s diverse, working-class voters, including Muslims and African Americans, frustrated by skyrocketing rents and AI-driven job losses.
His bold pledges, likened to Delhi’s Arvind Kejriwal, have sparked both hope and scepticism, with some Democrats wary of his ultra-socialist stance disrupting the party’s centrist leanings. Obama’s subtle support boosted Mamdani’s grassroots momentum, hinting at a potential revival of progressive ideals ahead of the 2028 presidential race.
Despite opposition from Trump, who labelled him a “communist”, and criticism from New York’s Hindu community over his remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mamdani’s win reflects a broader anti-incumbency sentiment. With over two million votes cast — the highest since 1969 — his victory challenges the Republican grip and sets the stage for a high-stakes clash with Trump’s administration, potentially reshaping US politics and influencing global allies.