Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Democratic Primary, Eyes Historic Mayoral Run

Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC election

In a political upset that has captured national attention, New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani has emerged as the frontrunner in the race for New York City mayor after securing a decisive victory in the Democratic primary. His defeat of former Governor Andrew Cuomo signals a major shift in the city’s political landscape and sets the stage for a potentially historic general election in November.

Mamdani, a democratic socialist representing Astoria in the State Assembly, campaigned on a boldly progressive platform aimed at addressing New York City’s affordability crisis and systemic inequality. His proposals include rent freezes, fare-free public transportation, city-run grocery stores, and universal childcare—ideas that have resonated strongly with younger and working-class voters across the city.

The primary was conducted using New York City’s ranked-choice voting system, allowing voters to list multiple candidates in order of preference. While initial results showed a close contest—Cuomo had a slight lead in first-choice votes—Mamdani surged ahead once second- and third-choice preferences were factored in. By the end of the preliminary count, he held an estimated 52% of the total vote, compared to Cuomo’s 48%.

Cuomo, who re-entered public life in an effort to reclaim political relevance, acknowledged Mamdani’s lead and congratulated him publicly. Though he has not officially withdrawn, Cuomo stated he would “wait for the final ranked-choice tabulation” before deciding whether to pursue an independent bid in the general election.

Mamdani’s rise has been propelled by grassroots support and high-profile endorsements, including from figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Bernie Sanders, and New York City Comptroller Brad Lander. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), with which Mamdani is affiliated, also played a major role in mobilizing support across diverse boroughs.

If the current results hold, Mamdani will face Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa and current Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent after stepping away from the Democratic primary amid ongoing investigations into his administration. Adams still commands a significant base, but Mamdani’s momentum may prove difficult to counter in the months ahead.

Voter turnout in the primary was notably high, especially in progressive-leaning neighborhoods like northern Manhattan, Queens, and southeastern Brooklyn. Analysts say this reflects a growing appetite for bold change in a city struggling with housing costs, public safety concerns, and economic recovery.

Although Mamdani is not yet officially the Democratic nominee, the final confirmation from ranked-choice vote tabulations is expected by July 1. If elected in November, Mamdani would become the first Muslim mayor in New York City’s history and one of the youngest to ever hold the office.

For now, his campaign is focused on preparing for what could be a fiercely contested general election. “This victory belongs to all New Yorkers who believe in a city for everyone—not just the wealthy,” Mamdani told supporters after the preliminary results were announced. “We’re just getting started.”

Highlights

Zohran Mamdani wins the Democratic primary, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Ranked-choice voting helped Mamdani gain a majority with second- and third-choice support.
Eric Adams to run as an independent in the general election despite leaving the Democratic primary.
Mamdani’s progressive platform includes rent freezes, free transit, and universal childcare.
If elected, Mamdani would become NYC’s first Muslim mayor.

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