Zohran Mamdani has officially been elected the new mayor of New York City, making history as the first Muslim, first South Asian, first Africa-born, and youngest mayor in more than a century. The 34-year-old Democratic socialist won with over 50% of the vote, defeating Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa in a high-profile race with record voter turnout.
In his victory speech, Mamdani embraced his identity and progressive platform, saying he would work every day to make the city better for working people. He emphasized New York’s immigrant roots, promising to keep the city a place that welcomes and supports immigrants. His plans include universal childcare, free buses, a rent freeze for one million tenants, and higher taxes on wealthy residents and corporations.
Mamdani also took direct aim at Donald Trump, who had previously criticized the idea of his election and hinted at withholding funds from the city. Addressing Trump, Mamdani declared New York would lead the fight against him and said the city would show the country how to defeat Trumpism. Shortly after, Trump reacted online, writing, “…AND SO IT BEGINS!”
The new mayor closed with a jab at Cuomo, saying he wished him well but that New York was moving on from politics that served only the powerful. As Mamdani prepares to take office on January 1, he faces massive expectations — but his victory has energized supporters seeking bold, progressive leadership in America’s largest city.