New York could see its first Muslim mayor as Cuomo concedes to Mamdani
New York could see its first Muslim mayor as Cuomo concedes to Mamdani
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Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old state lawmaker and democratic socialist, is on track to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor after winning the Democratic primary against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, Dawn E-Paper reported. With nearly 95% of ballots counted, Mamdani led Cuomo 43.5% to 36.4%, with other candidates trailing far behind. Cuomo conceded and congratulated Mamdani.
Mamdani, born in Uganda in 1991 to parents of Indian descent, immigrated to the United States in his childhood and grew up in New York. He is the son of the well-known intellectual Mahmood Mamdani and writer Miriam Birnbaum. Before entering politics, he worked as a taxi driver and community organizer, gaining prominence for advocating for immigrant rights and social justice issues.
Mamdani identifies himself as a “progressive Muslim” and advocates for radical reforms including economic equality, free public transportation, rent control, and the expansion of early education programs. His campaign received support from prominent leftist figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
His electoral campaign relied on a wide mobilization of young volunteers and intensive activity on social media, focusing on pressing livelihood issues facing New Yorkers, foremost among them the housing crisis, where some apartment rents reach $6,000 per month.
Despite this primary victory, Mamdani still faces a long road ahead, with a decisive challenge awaiting him in the general election later this year against the Republican Party candidate. However, his surprising lead reflects a remarkable shift in the city’s political mood and reinforces the presence of youth and Muslims in local decision-making positions.
