When asked if he sees New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani as the future of the Democratic Party, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) dodged the question during an interview on “State of the Union” with CNN’s Jake Tapper.
Jeffries emphasized that the future of the Democratic Party lies with members of the House Democratic Caucus who are making significant contributions across the country. He then shifted the focus to criticizing President Donald Trump and the GOP, accusing them of failing to deliver for the American people.
Tapper pressed Jeffries on Mamdani’s endorsement, highlighting that some House Democrats from New York have not supported him and pointing out the delayed endorsement from Jeffries himself. Despite pressure from his party, Jeffries eventually endorsed Mamdani last month, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer now remaining as the final key figure withholding support.
When questioned about potential Republican backlash against Mamdani affecting Democratic chances in the 2026 House elections, Jeffries dismissed the idea, attributing the outcome to the failures of the GOP to fulfill their promises and improve the lives of Americans.
Recent polls suggest that Mamdani’s lead in the mayoral race may be shrinking, with him at 40% of the vote, independent candidate Andrew Cuomo at 34%, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa at 24%.
You can watch Jeffries’ full interview on “State of the Union” below.
