In the final stretch before New York City’s June 24 Democratic mayoral primary, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani has emerged as a formidable challenger to former Governor Andrew Cuomo. At 33, Mamdani—a democratic socialist representing Queens—has galvanized a coalition of young progressives, working-class voters, and immigrant communities with a platform centered on affordability, public transit, and social equity.
Mamdani’s campaign has gained significant momentum, particularly after securing a high-profile endorsement from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. “Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani has demonstrated a real ability on the ground to put together a coalition of working-class New Yorkers,” Ocasio-Cortez stated, emphasizing his grassroots appeal. Mamdani responded, “With @AOC’s support and this movement behind us, we will do the same,” referencing Ocasio-Cortez’s own political rise.
Born in Uganda and raised in New York City, Mamdani would become the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected. His tenure in the State Assembly has been marked by advocacy for taxi driver debt relief and initiatives like the city’s first free bus pilot.
Mamdani’s policy proposals are ambitious: universal free childcare, rent freezes, free public buses, and city-owned grocery stores to combat food deserts. He argues that these measures are essential to address the city’s affordability crisis. “Every politician says New York is the greatest city in the world. But what good is that if no one can afford to live here?” he questioned in a recent campaign video.
However, his positions have not been without controversy. During a recent debate, Mamdani refrained from acknowledging Israel as a Jewish state, drawing criticism from Cuomo and others. Additionally, his support for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement has raised concerns among more centrist and Jewish voters.
Despite these challenges, Mamdani’s campaign has achieved significant fundraising success, reportedly maxing out the fundraising cap with over $8 million raised from approximately 18,000 donors citywide. His grassroots approach and emphasis on community engagement have resonated with a segment of the electorate seeking change.
Polls indicate that while Cuomo maintains a lead, Mamdani is gaining traction. A recent Emerson College poll shows Cuomo at 34% and Mamdani at 22%, with other candidates trailing. The ranked-choice voting system adds an element of unpredictability, potentially benefiting candidates like Mamdani who are the second or third choice for many voters.
As the primary approaches, Mamdani’s ability to expand his appeal beyond his progressive base will be crucial. His campaign’s success hinges on mobilizing voters who are dissatisfied with the status quo and seeking a transformative vision for New York City.
Endorsement Battle: Mamdani vs. Cuomo
As the Democratic primary tightens, the contrast in endorsements between Mamdani and Cuomo underscores the ideological divide shaping this race. Mamdani’s support comes primarily from progressive lawmakers and grassroots organizations, while Cuomo draws strength from established labor unions, moderate Democrats, and faith-based communities.
Zohran Mamdani’s campaign has been energized by endorsements from influential progressive groups and figures. The Democratic Socialists of America, six socialist state legislators, the Working Families Party, and most recently, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have all thrown their weight behind Mamdani. “With @AOC’s support and this movement behind us, we will do the same,” Mamdani tweeted, signaling the historic nature of his candidacy.
Cuomo, on the other hand, has amassed a powerful coalition of institutional supporters. These include major labor unions such as the Hotel Trades Council, 32BJ SEIU, and 1199SEIU, all of which hold significant sway in New York City politics. His endorsements also come from key elected officials, including Representatives Ritchie Torres and Adriano Espaillat, and more than 100 faith leaders citywide. Cuomo’s team argues that this reflects “a broad and practical coalition that represents the real New York.”
Some of Mamdani’s supporters in their interaction with Overseas Pakistanis Society argued that establishment endorsements reflect a status quo that has failed many New Yorkers.
“We need a mayor who works for people, not profit,” said State Senator Jabari Brisport, a Mamdani endorser. Conversely, Cuomo’s campaign emphasizes experience and competence.
“New Yorkers want safety, stability, and a mayor who knows how to govern,” Cuomo said at a recent campaign stop in the Bronx.
While Mamdani’s endorsements reflect ideological alignment, Cuomo’s offer strategic muscle — organizational backing, volunteer armies, and voter mobilization machinery. The final outcome may depend less on ideology and more on ground game execution and turnout.
