Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Mayoral Race in Historic Progressive Victory

New York City has ushered in a new political era. On Tuesday night, Zohran Mamdani stood before a roaring crowd in Brooklyn, declaring, “The future is in our hands,” after clinching a historic victory in the mayoral race. At just 34, Mamdani has shattered multiple barriers — becoming the first Muslim and South Asian to lead the city, and its youngest mayor in over 100 years.

Text “RICKEY” to 71007 to join the Rickey Smiley Morning Show mobile club for exclusive news. (Terms and conditions).

The Ugandan-born politician, who rose from relative obscurity as a Queens assemblymember, defeated two high-profile contenders: former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. The Associated Press called the race shortly after polls closed, marking a decisive moment for progressives in America’s largest city.

Love Entertainment? Get more! Join the The Rickey Smiley Morning Show Newsletter

Subscribe

We care about your data. See our privacy policy.

Mamdani’s campaign was powered by grassroots organizing and a message centered on economic justice and equity. His platform included bold proposals such as fare-free buses, rent freezes, universal childcare, and higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy. For many young voters and working-class New Yorkers, his message of hope struck a powerful chord.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE. 

“This is about building a city where everyone can thrive, not just survive,” Mamdani told supporters, quoting early 20th-century socialist leader Eugene Debs in his victory speech. His words were met with chants of “Zoh-ran! Zoh-ran!” from a crowd of young volunteers who helped turn out record-breaking early voter numbers.

The atmosphere in Brooklyn was emotional for many. “It was surreal,” said Dania Darwish, a Syrian-American voter. “My mom cried on the way to the polls — she couldn’t believe someone who looks like us could lead this city.”

Mamdani’s path to victory wasn’t easy. His opponent, Andrew Cuomo, sought a political comeback after resigning as governor in 2021 amid scandal. Backed by some centrist Democrats and current Mayor Eric Adams, Cuomo’s campaign focused on public safety and combating antisemitism. But his attacks on Mamdani’s socialist platform and criticisms of his foreign policy stances failed to sway enough voters.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR APP AND TAKE US WITH YOU ANYWHERE!

In his concession speech, Cuomo warned that New York was “headed down a dangerous road” and denounced Mamdani’s embrace of socialism. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa — known for his Guardian Angels crime patrol — trailed far behind in third place but vowed to “keep fighting for the working-class New Yorker.”

Mamdani’s win reflects a generational shift within New York politics. His youthful, digitally savvy campaign energized progressives across the nation. Backed by major left-leaning organizations and figures, his success has been compared to that of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other members of the Democratic socialist movement.

Related Article: Zohran Mamdani: NYC Mayoral Debate Shows How He Plans To Lead City

Related Article: Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani Hits The Club In NYC, Vibes To “Not Like Us”

While his victory speech was filled with optimism, Mamdani acknowledged the challenges ahead. He promised to “fight for working families, rebuild trust in government, and create a city that works for everyone — not just the wealthy few.”

As the city celebrates this historic milestone, one thing is clear: New York’s political landscape has changed. The election of Zohran Mamdani is more than a win for progressives — it’s a statement about the kind of city New Yorkers want to build for the future.

HEAD BACK TO THE RICKEYSMILEYMORNINGSHOW.COM HOMEPAGE