Zohran Mamdani's victory in the New York City mayoral race has triggered a diverse range of reactions across the globe, particularly in Europe, Israel, and India. As the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of the city, his win is seen by some as a beacon of hope for progressive politics, while others express concern over his socialist views and criticism of certain international policies.
Europe:
In Europe, reactions to Mamdani's win have largely fallen along ideological lines. Left-leaning politicians and organizers have celebrated his victory as a triumph over right-wing populism. Budapest's liberal mayor, Gergely Karacsony, praised Mamdani for standing up to Trump and the political establishment, emphasizing that his policies would serve the majority. Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, also congratulated Mamdani, highlighting the shared faith between the leaders of two of the world's most influential cities while noting that their victories were due to addressing voters' concerns rather than exploiting them. In Britain, several politicians on the left celebrated the win, with an emerging Green Party leader citing inspiration from Mamdani's campaign.
Israel:
In Israel, Mamdani's victory has been met with a more divided response. Right-wing outlets have expressed concern, with The Jerusalem Post publishing an editorial suggesting that Mamdani's win could mean antisemitism can win elections and impact Jews globally. Israel's far-right minister of national security, Itamar Ben Gvir, stated that Mamdani's win would be remembered as a moment when antisemitism overcame common sense. These reactions stem from Mamdani's outspoken criticism of the Israeli government's policies towards Palestinians, including accusations of genocide in Gaza. He has stated that he recognizes Israel's right to exist but will not recognize any state that has a system of hierarchy based on race or religion.
However, some left-wing commentators in Israel have called for Mamdani to be given a chance. Despite his criticisms, Mamdani has also met with Jewish leaders in New York and visited synagogues, promising to address rising antisemitism in the city. The Israeli foreign ministry has criticized Mamdani for acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas propaganda.
India:
In India, reactions to Mamdani's win are complex and multifaceted. Opposition politicians have cheered his victory, with some arguing that it demonstrates the continued viability of liberal values. Mamdani's mixed heritage, with a Muslim father from Gujarat and a Hindu mother with roots in Delhi, is seen by some as a rejection of narrow ethnic nationalism. His emphasis on state intervention in markets to secure basic needs resonates with those familiar with India's pre-liberalization era.
However, supporters of Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi have criticized Mamdani for his public criticisms of Modi and his policies. Mamdani has called Modi a "war criminal" and accused the BJP of building an India that only has room for certain kinds of Indians. Despite these criticisms, Mamdani invoked the pluralistic India of his childhood during Diwali outreach to Hindu voters. His success is seen as a sign that economic populism focused on redistribution can still win elections.
Global Implications:
Mamdani's win is seen as a sign of hope for liberal politics amidst rising right-wing populism. His victory demonstrates the power of grassroots mobilization and generational renewal. His campaign, which focused on affordability and working-class issues, drew attention nationwide and succeeded in establishing a broad coalition across demographic divides. Some see his win as a blueprint for grassroots, digital, and youth-driven campaigns. Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who had been among Mamdani's fiercest critics, congratulated Mamdani on his victory and offered his help to New York City. Crypto billionaire Mike Novogratz suggested that the business community needed to reach out to the progressive leader to address affordability issues. Mamdani's victory speech emphasized that his election win was a mandate for change and that power belongs in the hands of the working people of New York.
