NEW YORK (AP) — Zohran Mamdani, a relatively unknown state lawmaker, announced his candidacy for mayor in October 2023 and has marked a significant political achievement by declaring victory in the Democratic primary from a rooftop bar in Queens, following the concession of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Although the official results are pending, with a ranked-choice count set for July 1, Mamdani's ascent in the crowded race has drawn considerable attention.
At just 33 years old, Mamdani aims to become both the youngest mayor in generations and the first Muslim and Indian American to hold the office. Born in Kampala, Uganda, to Indian parents, he became an American citizen in 2018 shortly after completing his degree at Bowdoin College in Maine. His family relocated to New York City when he was just seven, and he has since developed ties to various artistic and political circles.
Mamdani’s mother, Mira Nair, is a renowned filmmaker known for her acclaimed works such as “Monsoon Wedding” and “The Namesake.” His father, Mahmood Mamdani, is an anthropology professor at Columbia University. In line with his personal life, Mamdani married Syrian American artist Rama Duwaji earlier this year, and they currently reside in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens.
Before venturing into politics, Mamdani pursued a career in music, performing as a rapper under the names Young Cardamom and Mr. Cardamom. He earned a degree in Africana studies from Bowdoin College and co-founded the college’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter. His time as a foreclosure prevention counselor in Queens helped propel his interest in public service, inspiring him to run for office.
Mamdani was first elected to the New York Assembly in 2020, where he represents a Queens district that includes Astoria. He has since secured reelection twice and has championed social justice causes, most notably pushing for a pilot program that made select city buses free for one year. Moreover, he has proposed legislation aimed at prohibiting non-profits from engaging in unauthorized support of Israeli settlement activities. His political positions have positioned him as a Democratic Socialist, drawing both attention and criticism from various factions.
Critics, including Cuomo, have questioned Mamdani's experience in handling the complexities of managing New York City. In response, Mamdani has reframed his relative inexperience as a unique strength, highlighting his campaign's focus on integrity compared to Cuomo's history marred by scandals. He expressed pride in not embodying the “experience of corruption, scandal, and disgrace” associated with his opponent.
Central to Mamdani’s campaign has been his vocal support for Palestinian rights, which has sparked considerable debate. His strong statements characterizing Israel's military actions in Gaza as “genocide” and his insistence on a state that ensures equal rights have resonated with pro-Palestinian constituents, which include a significant Muslim community in New York City. This perspective has made him a polarizing figure, as opponents have labeled his critiques as antisemitic. He has faced scrutiny for his refusal to condemn calls to “globalize the intifada,” a phrase commonly associated with pro-Palestinian protests.
In his victory speech, Mamdani emphasized the importance of dialogue, expressing a commitment to engage with those who may not share his views. He pledged to uphold his beliefs while striving to understand differing perspectives, reflecting a willingness to navigate the complexities of New York City's diverse political landscape.
His ascendancy in the political arena underscores a significant shift in the city's democratic landscape, potentially heralding a new chapter in New York City's governance.
