NEW YORK – In a historic election marked by record voter turnout, Muslim candidate Zhoran Mamdani has been elected as the new Mayor of New York City.
Mamdani triumphed over independent candidate and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican contender Curtis Sliwa.
The election witnessed the highest voter turnout since 1969, with more than two million New Yorkers casting their ballots. Despite opposition from former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, Mamdani’s campaign prevailed, signaling a major political shift in the city. Trump had endorsed Andrew Cuomo, but his candidate faced a decisive defeat.
Born in 1991 in Uganda, Zhoran Mamdani is the son of prominent Indian-origin parents. His mother, Mira Nair, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a professor at Columbia University. Mamdani’s wife, Rama Dawaji, is a visual artist of Syrian descent.
Mamdani’s victory is being seen as a win for the working class agenda. His campaign centered on affordable housing, free public transport, universal childcare, and measures to strengthen the middle class. The mayor-elect has vowed to freeze rents, make city transport free, and expand childcare access across New York.
Known for his outspoken support of Palestinians, Mamdani has previously stated that if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court, visits New York, he would seek his arrest.
Zhoran Mamdani’s victory marks a new chapter in New York’s political history — one that blends social justice, inclusivity, and a renewed promise of equitable governance.
