Zohran Mamdani makes history as NYC’s first Muslim and youngest mayor

Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York City, marking a historic moment for the city and the United States. The 34-year-old politician will be the first Muslim and first person of South Asian heritage to lead America’s largest city, as well as the youngest mayor in over a century.

The Ugandan-born Democratic Socialist clinched victory in Tuesday’s election, defeating former New York governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. The Associated Press called the race shortly after polls closed, confirming Mamdani’s sweeping win.

A meteoric rise

Just a few years ago, Mamdani was a relatively unknown state assembly member from Queens. His journey from community organiser to City Hall is being described as one of the most unexpected political ascents in recent memory. His campaign focused on affordability, fairness and inclusion, striking a chord with younger voters and working-class communities.

Mamdani’s platform includes making city buses free, introducing universal child care, raising the minimum wage by 2030, and freezing rents for stabilised apartments. He has also pledged to raise taxes on corporations and the wealthiest New Yorkers to fund social programmes.

Despite criticism over his limited experience and bold economic proposals, Mamdani’s message of a “New York for everyone” gained traction through a vibrant social media campaign and energetic rallies across the city. His approachable demeanour and emphasis on hope, rather than confrontation, helped him connect with first-time voters and disillusioned Democrats.

A tough campaign trail

The mayoral race unfolded like a political drama. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, plagued by corruption allegations and low approval ratings, initially sought re-election as an independent but withdrew in September, later endorsing Cuomo. That endorsement, however, was not enough to stop Mamdani’s growing momentum.

Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid sexual misconduct allegations, attempted a political comeback with a centrist message focused on public safety and housing. But his return to the spotlight failed to reignite voter trust. Meanwhile, Sliwa, the 71-year-old founder of the Guardian Angels, trailed in the polls but refused to bow out.

A new chapter for New York

Mamdani’s victory signals a generational and ideological shift in New York politics. His success has been powered largely by young and progressive voters who turned out in record numbers, with more than 735,000 casting early ballots.

While his ambitious promises will face resistance in a politically divided city, supporters believe his leadership could redefine what progressive governance looks like in the post-Trump era. For many New Yorkers, Mamdani’s win is not just about making history, but about reshaping the future of their city.