New York– In a major political upset, 33-year-old Indian-origin politician Zohran Mamdani has won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a tightly contested race, according to local media reports.
Mamdani secured 43.5 percent of the vote, while Cuomo trailed behind with 36.3 percent, despite his early lead and high-profile endorsements.
The race, one of the most closely watched in recent New York political history, featured nearly a dozen Democratic candidates vying to lead the largest city in the United States, where Democrats outnumber Republicans by a three-to-one margin.
Born to renowned Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan-born Indian scholar Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran Mamdani has long been active in grassroots organizing and progressive politics. He is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America and ran on a platform focused on affordable housing, police reform, and bold climate action.
After clinching the nomination, Mamdani took to social media to thank supporters, quoting Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done. My friends, it is done. And you are the ones who did it. I am honored to be your Democratic nominee for the Mayor of New York City.”
The primary took place during a sweltering heatwave, with polls closing at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Although official certification may take time, Mamdani’s lead is considered strong enough to declare him the presumptive nominee.
His victory marks a significant moment for the Democratic Party, which continues to wrestle with ideological divisions between its progressive and centrist wings. Mamdani’s energetic campaign, driven by a strong social media presence and a mobilized base of young voters, has galvanized the party’s left flank.
Cuomo, once seen as the frontrunner thanks to his name recognition, establishment ties, and backing from figures like former President Bill Clinton, saw his campaign falter amid renewed scrutiny over past controversies—including allegations of sexual harassment and criticism of his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to his resignation as governor in 2021.
A staunch supporter of Israel and long considered a fixture of the Democratic establishment, Cuomo was widely viewed as a formidable candidate. However, Mamdani’s grassroots momentum ultimately proved decisive.
Mamdani’s nomination now sets the stage for a potentially historic general election, where he would be positioned to become New York City’s first Muslim and Indian-origin mayor. (Source: IANS)
