New York City is on the cusp of potentially electing Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old New York State Assembly member of Indian origin, as its next mayor. The election on November 4, 2025, pits Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, against former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
Mamdani, born in Kampala, Uganda, to academic Mahmood Mamdani and filmmaker Mira Nair, has seen a surge in popularity due to his progressive platform. His proposals include fare-free city buses, universal child care, city-owned grocery stores, a rent freeze on rent-stabilized units, and a $30 minimum wage by 2030. He plans to fund these initiatives through tax increases on corporations and those earning over $1 million annually. Mamdani's platform focuses on making life in New York City more affordable, addressing issues from utility bills to grocery and childcare costs.
Recent polls indicate a narrowing lead for Mamdani. An Atlas poll conducted through October 30 shows Mamdani with 40% of the vote, followed by Cuomo at 34% and Sliwa at 24%. A Quinnipiac University poll released on October 29 gives Mamdani a 43% lead, with Cuomo at 33% and Sliwa at 14%. However, the number of undecided voters suggests potential for shifts before the election.
Mamdani's campaign has drawn comparisons to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's primary victory in 2018, signaling a potential shift in New York City's political landscape. His success has garnered attention and praise, including a phone call from former President Barack Obama. Obama reportedly offered to be a "sounding board" if Mamdani wins and praised his campaign. However, some national Democrats have been hesitant to fully embrace Mamdani, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America. Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries endorsed Mamdani relatively late, while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have not endorsed anyone in the race.
Mamdani's opponents have criticized his policies and experience. Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid misconduct allegations, has labeled Mamdani an out-of-touch ideologue. Moderate Democratic Representative Tom Suozzi endorsed Cuomo, stating he could not support a "declared socialist with a thin resume".
In the final days of the campaign, Mamdani has been actively engaging with voters across the city. He released a campaign video in Arabic, appealing to Middle Eastern immigrants by addressing the rising cost of living. His campaign has also focused on grassroots mobilization, aiming to break the state record for the most doors knocked in a single day. Mamdani's campaign reported that about 90,000 volunteers have participated throughout the election season.
The election result could offer insights into the future of the Democratic Party and the viability of progressive policies in urban centers. A victory for Mamdani would represent a significant win for the Democratic Socialists of America and could encourage similar campaigns across the country.
