NEW YORK CITY—In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani, a fresh face in New York politics and current state assemblyman, has declared victory in the initial round of the Democratic primary for the 2025 mayoral election. His triumph comes on the heels of former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s concession—a political twist worthy of a soap opera.
Mamdani, an Indian Ugandan immigrant who became a U.S. citizen in 2018, secured 43.5 percent of the first-preference votes, effectively outpacing Cuomo, who garnered only 36.4 percent. This outcome is particularly striking given Cuomo’s historical status as the frontrunner, a title he held until Mamdani’s campaign gained momentum in the final weeks leading up to the primary.
Cuomo’s resignation from the governorship in 2021, prompted by an impeachment process linked to allegations of sexual misconduct that he adamantly denied, seemed to seal his political fate. Yet, the former governor had hoped for a comeback, only to face an unexpected setback in this primary. His concession on election night left many wondering if he would ever reclaim his former glory.
In a nod to the resilience often attributed to political underdogs, Mamdani quoted Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” He expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, “My friends, it is done. And you are the ones who did it. I am honored to be your Democratic nominee for the Mayor of New York City.”
Cuomo’s defeat signals a significant blow to his aspirations for a political renaissance. A member of a well-known political dynasty—his father, Mario Cuomo, served as governor from 1983 to 1994—Andrew’s career was once held in high esteem. Similarly, Mamdani also boasts a notable lineage: his father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a prominent postcolonial scholar, and his mother, Mira Nair, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker.
Following incumbent Mayor Eric Adams’s controversial decision to run as an independent amid corruption allegations, Cuomo emerged as a major Democratic contender. However, Mamdani’s progressive platform resonated with voters, especially the younger demographic, who increasingly turned to social media to rally support for his candidacy. As polls began to favor Mamdani, the prospect of an upset victory became increasingly likely.
Campaigning on a platform that pushed for a rent freeze, free bus rides, city-run grocery stores with affordable prices, and no-cost childcare, Mamdani made it clear that addressing the cost of living in New York City was his top priority. His progressive agenda attracted endorsements from influential figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), further solidifying his standing among left-leaning voters.
Conversely, Cuomo secured endorsements from significant entities, including The New York Times editorial board and former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, as well as various community leaders. However, resistance from segments of the electorate emerged, particularly in response to Mamdani’s critiques of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which drew ire from some Jewish community members.
Other candidates in the primary included New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, Speaker of the New York City Council Adrienne Adams, and former Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer. Lander, who received cross-endorsement from Mamdani for second-preference votes, achieved 11.3 percent in the first round. If Lander’s supporters followed the recommended rankings, Mamdani would likely secure the nomination outright after subsequent rounds.
This outcome positions Mamdani against Adams in the general election—a contest that promises to be as contentious as it is pivotal.
Voters on Mamdani and Cuomo
The Epoch Times spoke with a selection of the nearly 1 million voters who cast ballots in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn, delving into their motivations and reactions to the candidates.
“I voted for Zohran Mamdani,” said Nikita Jain, a young engineer from Brooklyn. “His campaign resonated well with immigrants and others in the community. Sure, he leans very far left, but that seems to be what many voters are craving.”
“I did not rank Cuomo. I’ve only heard negative things about him, and I don’t believe someone with questionable ethics should hold office,” Jain added.
Others echoed similar sentiments, with Cuomo’s alleged sexual misconduct serving as a significant deterrent in their voting decisions. “I ranked Mamdani first and Lander second; avoiding Cuomo was my top priority,” stated Samantha Espella, an attorney and public defender from the Bronx. “It’s crucial we reflect on the type of politicians we want to represent us.”
While some voters opted for Cuomo solely to prevent a Mamdani victory, others expressed dissatisfaction with both candidates. “We’re stuck choosing the lesser of two evils,” lamented Zack Friend, a young Jewish voter from Manhattan, who felt compelled to support Cuomo despite his reservations.
Concerns about crime, homelessness, and sanitation dominated discussions among voters, with many expressing dissatisfaction with Adams’s tenure. “Safety is the main issue in New York right now,” noted Michael Lotour, a Bronx voter who ranked Mamdani first strictly to avoid Adams, whose “alliance with Trump” he criticized.
Lee, a Manhattan voter who ranked Lander first and Mamdani second, echoed the sentiment that Adams has been ineffective. “I’m just trying to minimize badness,” she remarked.
Luke Florczak, a former U.S. Marine and candidate for New York City Council, voiced his distrust in Adams, describing interactions with him as “a dog-and-pony show.” He also criticized Cuomo for the sexual harassment allegations that shadow his political legacy.
Ranked Choice Voting
New York City employs a ranked choice voting system for its primaries, wherein voters rank candidates by preference, and the results are determined through a process of elimination. While designed to enhance voter choice, the system has confused some participants. Veronica Osifo, an elderly Bronx resident, expressed her bewilderment, having only ranked Cuomo.
Some voters strategically ranked candidates, placing Mamdani and Cuomo lower on their ballots, believing their top choices would be eliminated, thus preserving their votes for subsequent rounds. “I can rank top candidates lower and it doesn’t matter,” explained Davy, a math tutor in Manhattan.
Efforts to educate the electorate about ranked choice voting included mailings and signage at polling stations. “Kudos to the city for sending out detailed instructions beforehand,” Lee commended. “It might take a little time to understand, but many folks seemed informed this election.”
Candidates ‘Get Out the Vote’
Throughout the city, The Epoch Times observed campaign staff and volunteers actively distributing flyers near polling stations, adhering to state regulations that restrict electioneering within 100 feet of entrances. Candidates themselves were also present, rallying supporters and persuading undecided voters.
On primary day, June 24, temperatures soared to a record 102 degrees Fahrenheit—the hottest day in the city’s history in 137 years. Despite the heat, many voters reported high turnout rates. “People were out and about,” Florczak remarked, noting he and a volunteer handed out hundreds of flyers throughout the day.
Lee, witnessing impressive turnout, noted, “I saw plenty of older voters coming in, motivated by friends and family.” However, concerns lingered about whether the heat would deter participation. “I hope people prioritize voting over the weather,” Friend added.
The general election is set for November 4, a date that will undoubtedly be circled on the calendars of New Yorkers eager to see how this political drama unfolds.
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