Muslim Donors Propel Zohran Mamdani’s NYC Mayoral Campaign, Signaling National Political Shift

Muslim Donors Propel Zohran Mamdani’s NYC Mayoral Campaign, Signaling National Political Shift
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Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected victory in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor has spotlighted a growing national political influence among Muslim American donors, ABC News reported. In the final days of the race, a nationwide mobilization of Muslim donors provided a crucial financial boost to Mamdani’s campaign, helping him overcome former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who was heavily funded by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Leaders of Mamdani’s super PAC, “New Yorkers for Lower Costs,” praised the significant contributions from Arab and Muslim Americans. PAC chair Regina Monge noted many of their largest donors came from these communities. Political experts highlight this as the first prominent, unified national fundraising effort by Muslim Americans, reflecting their expanding political engagement.

Democratic bundler Asif Mahmood described Mamdani’s campaign as transformative, uniting diverse Muslim donors—Arab and South Asian, secular and devout, local and national. This coalition is seen as a model for future campaigns, including Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed, whose grassroots fundraising mirrors Mamdani’s approach.

Despite facing opposition from wealthier donors, Mamdani’s campaign thrived on small-dollar contributions, securing 28,000 donations totaling $1.7 million, compared to Cuomo’s $4 million from fewer donors. Supporters like Mohammed Davoodi, inspired by Mamdani’s immigrant background and principles, see the campaign as a sign of changing attitudes toward Muslim candidates in American politics.

As Democratic strategists note, this growing political power among Muslim Americans marks a shift from traditional charity giving to active coalition building and influence on national elections.