Who Is Zohran Mamdani? NYC Mayoral Primary Explained
Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic socialist, won New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary on June 24, 2025. He defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a stunning upset.
Mamdani now faces incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, running as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa in the November general election. His victory signals a shift toward progressive policies in a city grappling with affordability and political division.
Who Is Zohran Mamdani?
Mamdani is a Queens assemblyman of Indian-Ugandan heritage. Son of filmmaker Mira Nair, he could become NYC’s first Indian-American and Muslim mayor.
A Bowdoin College graduate with a degree in Africana Studies, he identifies as an anti-Zionist and supports the boycott movement against Israel. Backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, his platform focuses on working-class issues. His youth and charisma energized a diverse voter base.
How He Rose to Victory
Mamdani’s campaign gained traction through social media and viral content, echoing strategies used by Donald Trump. Initially a lesser-known candidate, he built momentum with endorsements from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders.
His promises of free bus fares, tuition-free CUNY, and rent freezes resonated with younger, progressive voters. He led with 43.5% of first-choice votes, outpacing Cuomo’s 36.4%. Mamdani’s coalition included liberal and minority communities, boosting turnout by up to 40% in some areas.
NYC Mayoral Primary Explained
The Democratic primary, held on June 24, 2025, selects the party’s nominee for mayor. NYC uses ranked-choice voting (RCV), where voters rank up to five candidates.
If no candidate secures over 50% of first-choice votes, lower-ranked candidates are eliminated, and their votes redistributed until a majority emerges. Mamdani’s lead awaits final RCV tabulations, expected by July 1. The primary’s winner typically dominates the general election in this Democratic stronghold.
Policy Priorities and Challenges
Mamdani’s platform tackles NYC’s affordability crisis. He proposes rent freezes, free public transit, and expanded social services funded by higher taxes.
Critics question his inexperience and socialist label, while supporters see a bold vision for equity. His anti-Zionist stance and pledge to reject “Trump’s fascism” have sparked debate, especially among Jewish voters. Facing Adams and possibly Cuomo again, Mamdani must broaden his appeal to win in November.
Mamdani’s foreign policy views, particularly on Israel, have drawn scrutiny. He has accused Israel of genocide and defended the phrase “Globalize the intifada.”
His ties to pro-Palestinian groups like Students for Justice in Palestine and Within Our Lifetime have alarmed some, while others praise his principled stance. If elected, his international rhetoric could influence NYC’s global image and relations. Mamdani aims to govern as a model for Democrats resisting Trump’s policies.
Why Zohran Mamdani Faces Accusations of Anti-India Sentiment 