Defeats former governor Andrew Cuomo to become Democratic nominee in landmark upset
In a significant political shakeup, Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Indian-origin Muslim and self-described socialist, has emerged victorious in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani secured 43.5% of the vote, while Cuomo followed with 36.3%, according to the latest vote tally, reported ndtv.com.
Mamdani—whose mother is acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and father is Mahmood Mamdani, an Indian-born Ugandan Marxist scholar—expressed gratitude to supporters via a post on X. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he wrote:
“It always seems impossible until it’s done. My friends, it is done. And you are the ones who did it. I am honoured to be your Democratic nominee for the Mayor of New York City.”
Zohran Mamdani, son of filmmaker Mira Nair, wins NYC Democratic primary, pledges affordability and change for America’s largest city
The primary, which saw participation from nearly a dozen Democratic candidates, occurred amid a sweltering heatwave. Despite the weather, voter turnout reflected strong interest in reshaping the leadership of America’s largest city, where Democrats outnumber Republicans three to one.
Mamdani’s win represents a generational and ideological shift within the party. Backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), his campaign emphasized housing affordability, public transit improvements, and social equity, finding support among young and progressive voters mobilized through savvy social media outreach.
Cuomo, once the frontrunner thanks to his name recognition and establishment support—including that of former President Bill Clinton—was dogged by past allegations of sexual harassment and COVID-19 mismanagement, which may have undermined his comeback attempt.
While Mamdani’s alignment with the DSA raises concerns among moderate Democrats, especially amid the party’s national struggle following Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, his victory may signal a leftward trend in urban Democratic politics.
Final certification of the primary results may take additional days, but Mamdani has already begun preparing for the general election—positioning himself as the voice of a new, diverse, and progressive New York City.
