Zehra Memdani, after her dramatic victory, which took place on June 24 in the Democratic primaries of New York City by defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo by seven points, is making waves in the United States, where she received approximately 44% of the votes in her first election, while Cuomo received around 36%. Her community-based campaign has resonated in the hearts of young people and progressive voters, focusing on reforms related to the cost of living, such as free public buses, universal childcare, rent freezes, and a $30 minimum wage by 2030, which will be funded by taxing the rich.
At only 33 years old and as a member of the Queen’s assembly, Mamdani enjoys the influential support of progressive allies like Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the Working Families Party, and even Jamal Bowman. His candidacy is historic: he will become New York’s first Muslim, South Asian, millennial, and openly democratic socialist mayor. Mamdani’s uncompromising stance on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, support for BDS, criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza, and defense of statements like “universalization of the Intifada” have polarized opinions. This fueled controversy and intensified scrutiny during the campaign. Meanwhile, Cuomo’s campaign, despite support from heavyweights and personal wealth, could not match Mamdani’s energy and verbal strength.
This trend reflects a broad national change: voters—especially younger generations—are leaning towards candidates who support bold economic policies and promise systemic change. Mamdani’s rise is an example of this shift, showcasing the growing racial divides within the Democratic Party and the increasing demand for progressive solutions in housing, transportation, child care, and taxation. His development is being closely monitored as a possible model for future campaigns across the country.
