Zohran Mamdani poised to become New York’s first Muslim mayor

NEW YORK: Zohran Mamdani, 33-year-old democratic socialist, is poised to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor after former governor Andrew Cuomo conceded in the Democratic primary Tuesday night.

With 91 per cent of the votes counted in the first round, Mamdani held 43.5 per cent of the vote, ahead of Cuomo who trailed with 36.4 per cent. Progressive city comptroller Brad Lander came in third with 11.4 per cent.

Speaking at a campaign event, Cuomo praised Mamdani’s campaign, calling it “smart, impactful and well-run,” adding, “Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.”

New York City uses a ranked-choice voting system. Since no candidate has crossed the 50 per cent threshold, second-choice votes will now be counted. Mamdani, who had recently aligned with Lander, is expected to gain the majority of those votes, giving him a stronger edge over Cuomo.

Mamdani’s rise marks a significant moment for progressive politics and a direct challenge to the Democratic Party’s centrist leadership. While Cuomo enjoyed backing from major donors and establishment figures like Bill Clinton, Mamdani’s campaign was largely powered by grassroots youth support.

In an interview with the New York Times, Cuomo said he called Mamdani to congratulate him and commended his ability to “inspire and mobilize young people.”

Israel claims victory as US intel says Iran nuclear sites not destroyed

Over 380,000 people cast their ballots during early voting, more than double the turnout of the 2021 primary. Despite a punishing heatwave pushing temperatures to 38°C (100°F), total voter turnout is estimated to have crossed 1 million, according to CBS New York.

WHO IS ZOHRAN MAMDANI?

Zohran Mamdani was born in Uganda and moved to New York when he was just 7 years old. He became a U.S. citizen in 2018. Before stepping into politics, he worked as a foreclosure prevention housing counsellor in Queens, helping low-income homeowners of colour, a role he says motivated him to pursue public office.

Mamdani was elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020, representing parts of Queens, including Astoria, Ditmars-Steinway, and Astoria Heights.

He was politically active during his time at Bowdoin College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Africana Studies. While there, he also co-founded the college’s chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine.

Known for his strong progressive views, Mamdani has openly criticised Israel’s military actions in Gaza, a stance that has placed him at the centre of a deeply divisive issue within the Democratic Party.

While the primary win doesn’t officially seal the mayoral seat, it strongly positions Mamdani to claim victory in the November general election in a city where Democrats overwhelmingly outnumber Republicans.