Mamdani Beats Cuomo In Dems’ New York Mayoral Primary

Zohran Mamdani delivered a political earthquake in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, riding progressive demands for change in a city grappling with an affordability crisis to the brink of a stunning victory, Eric Bradner reported for CNN.

Mamdani’s upstart campaign had much to overcome—Cuomo’s name recognition, deep financial resources, and endorsements from party leaders and labor unions. I Photo: Zohran Kwame Mamdani  Facebook

Democratic voters rejected former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a scandal-plagued icon of the party’s past.

Instead, they backed a 33-year-old democratic socialist who energized young voters and progressives with a grassroots campaign that may represent the first draft of a new political playbook.

“I will fight for a city that works for you, that is affordable for you, that is safe for you,” Mamdani said in his victory speech just after midnight. “We can be free and we can be fed. We can demand what we deserve.”

Mamdani’s viral, go-anywhere, talk-to-anyone style of campaigning could send shockwaves through the national Democratic Party as its leadership and incumbents face growing calls for authenticity and boldness from frustrated voters.

Republicans, meanwhile, quickly seized on Mamdani’s victory, hoping to campaign against policies they view as unpopular with swing voters.

The formal outcome of the race will not be known until at least July 1, when New York City releases the initial ranked-choice voting results. Still, Mamdani held a clear lead on election night, and Cuomo conceded, telling supporters:

“Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.” Mamdani’s upstart campaign had much to overcome—Cuomo’s name recognition, deep financial resources, and endorsements from party leaders and labor unions.

But he campaigned like the front-runner from the start.