Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, was celebrating a pronounced victory late Tuesday night. In fact, he just won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City. As of this writing, with over 93% of the votes counted, Mamdani has received over 43.5% of the votes cast. He is 23 points ahead of his closest competitor, former governor Andrew Cuomo, who has gotten 36.4%. If he wins the general election, Mamdani would be New York’s first Muslim mayor.
The Tuesday night primary election was electrifying, with thousands of motivated, grassroots backers. As an indication of the support for Mamdani’s campaign, this extraordinary turnout underscores the enthusiastic support that Mamdani’s campaign has gathered. His supporters went wild with joy at the election night celebration. Almost everyone joined in to sing “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye,” and the mood was jubilant as results began to pour in.
Brad Lander, New York City’s recently elected comptroller and an early supporter of Mamdani and his campaign, reacted with pride at what had happened.
“Hope and solidarity won tonight, and will win again in November.” – Brad Lander
Mamdani’s campaign has already stood out for its focus on affordable housing and social equity. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a leader in national progressive politics, celebrated Mamdani’s victory, acknowledging the odds he overcame against a heavily financed foe.
“Your dedication to an affordable, welcoming, and safe New York City where working families can have a shot has inspired people across the city. Billionaires and lobbyists poured millions against you and our public finance system. And you won,” – Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Mamdani’s celebration was graced by the presence of actress and activist Cynthia Nixon, who ran a well-publicized primary campaign against the incumbent governor of New York. She praised him for his historic victory.
“Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim democratic socialist has won the NYC primary for Mayor!!!!!!” – Cynthia Nixon
Mamdani’s victory has drawn comparisons to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s surprising win in 2018, with many analysts viewing it as a pivotal moment in New York City’s political landscape. Trip Yang, a Democratic consultant, called Mamdani’s victory the “most awesome upset in modern New York City history.”
Bernie Sanders, the long-time champion of Medicare for All and other progressive causes, extended his congratulations to Mamdani and his supporters for their remarkable achievements.
“You took on the political, economic and media Establishment- and you beat them. Now it’s on to victory in the general election.” – Bernie Sanders
Mamdani’s campaign has clearly touched on many important issues such as housing affordability and social justice, which has struck a chord with a broad and diverse voter base. As he prepares for the general election in November, he confidently stated:
“I will be your Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City.”