Zohran Mamdani’s Historic Win in NYC Mayoral Primary Shakes Up 2025 Race

By NRIGlobe Staff | June 29, 2025

New York City’s 2025 mayoral race has taken a dramatic turn as Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Indian-American and democratic socialist, clinched a stunning victory in the Democratic primary, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani’s win, solidified after ranked-choice voting results on June 25, 2025, positions him as the frontrunner for the November general election in a city where Democrats hold a 6-to-1 advantage over Republicans. If elected, Mamdani would become New York City’s first Indian-American and first Muslim mayor, a historic milestone for the nation’s largest metropolis.

A Campaign Fueled by Grassroots Energy

Mamdani, a state assemblyman from Queens, ran a campaign that resonated with younger and progressive voters, leveraging social media and a bold platform centered on affordability. His promises include capping rent, expanding free public transit, and introducing city-operated grocery stores to combat high living costs. Campaigning alongside allies like NYC Comptroller Brad Lander and endorsed by figures like U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mamdani’s message of economic equity struck a chord.

His victory speech in Long Island City on June 25 captured his vision: “I will fight for a city that works for you, that is affordable for you, that is safe for you. We can be free, and we can be fed.” His campaign’s innovative use of lo-fi subway videos and viral social media content, often dubbed the “Trump playbook” for its digital savvy, outmaneuvered Cuomo’s well-funded $25 million super PAC.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite his momentum, Mamdani faces significant challenges. His progressive policies, including a proposed $30 minimum wage, free childcare, and a property tax hike targeting “richer and whiter neighborhoods,” have sparked concern among moderates and business leaders. Critics, including real estate developers and figures like X CEO Linda Yaccarino, warn that his plans could strain New York City’s $1 trillion economy. A group of business leaders has already met with incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, to strategize against Mamdani.

Mamdani’s vocal support for Palestinian rights has also drawn criticism, particularly from some in NYC’s Jewish community, who have accused him of anti-Semitism for refusing to acknowledge Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. His defense of the phrase “globalize the intifada” has fueled further controversy. Additionally, a surge in anti-Muslim online attacks, including death threats and comparisons to 9/11, has been reported since his primary win, with 62% of such posts originating on X, according to CAIR Action.

The New York Young Republican Club’s call to revoke Mamdani’s U.S. citizenship, citing the Communist Control Act, has added to the polarized atmosphere, though legal experts dismiss the demand as baseless.

A Crowded General Election

The November election could become a five-way race, with Mamdani facing incumbent Mayor Eric Adams (independent), former Governor Andrew Cuomo (potentially running as an independent), Republican Curtis Sliwa, and independent Jim Walden. Cuomo, who conceded the primary but has not ruled out continuing his campaign, believes a broader electorate might favor his centrist approach over Mamdani’s progressive agenda.

Polls, including those from Polymarket, show Mamdani as the firm favorite, but the general election is expected to be heated. Two major unions, the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council and Local 32BJ, recently shifted their endorsements from Cuomo to Mamdani, signaling growing Democratic consolidation behind him.

A Historic Candidacy

Born in Uganda to Indian parents—filmmaker Mira Nair and academic Mahmood Mamdani—Zohran Mamdani’s rise reflects NYC’s diverse fabric. His campaign draws inspiration from his family’s immigrant story and his father’s scholarship on postcolonial politics, blending global perspectives with local action. If successful, Mamdani’s mayoralty could redefine New York’s political landscape, amplifying progressive policies while navigating a city divided by ideology and economics.

As the November 4 election approaches, all eyes are on Mamdani and whether his vision for an affordable, equitable New York will prevail in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Follow NRIGlobe for updates on the 2025 NYC mayoral race and other global Indian diaspora stories.