Zohran Mamdani has been projected as the winner of the New York City mayoral election, defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani, 34, becomes the youngest mayor in over a century and the first South Asian and Muslim to hold the position. His campaign focused on affordability, advocating for expanded social programs funded by new taxes on high earners and corporations.
Election Results and Historical Context
- Zohran Mamdani has been projected as the winner of New York City's mayoral election.
- Projections from BBC news partner CBS indicate Mamdani secured 50.3% of the vote.
- Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, received 41.6% of the vote.
- Republican Curtis Sliwa received approximately 7% of the vote.
- Curtis Sliwa conceded following the projection and made a statement recognizing the mayor-elect.
- Andrew Cuomo has not released a public statement.
- Mamdani, 34, becomes the youngest New York City mayor in over a century.
- He is the first South Asian and Muslim individual to lead the city.
Candidate Background and Campaign Platform
- Mamdani is a Ugandan-born Democrat.
- He was a member of the New York State Assembly.
- His campaign gained online momentum, leading to his victory in the Democratic primary contest.
- He describes himself as a democratic socialist.
- His campaign centered on affordability.
- He pledged to expand social programs, including universal child care and free and faster buses.
- These programs were proposed to be paid for by new taxes on high earners and corporations.
- Mamdani had led Cuomo and Sliwa in polls by double digits for weeks leading up to Election Day.
- He previously worked as a hip-hop artist and housing counselor.
- The city he will lead has a budget of $116 billion (£88bn).
Political Reactions and Engagement
- Mamdani's campaign drew national attention.
- President Donald Trump stated he would withhold federal funds from New York if Mamdani won, and referred to Mamdani as a communist.
- Republicans have characterized the future of the Democratic Party as socialist following Mamdani's win.
- His candidacy drew criticism from business leaders and some centrist Democrats.
- Some centrist Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, did not endorse him.
- His campaign drew support from young voters and contributed to discussions about the future direction of the Democratic Party.
- Mamdani won after former New York Mayor Eric Adams dropped out of the race following several scandals; Adams' withdrawal had been expected to boost Cuomo's candidacy.