New York City is on the verge of a political shift as State Assembly member Zohran Mamdani leads the race for mayor, according to the latest Quinnipiac University poll conducted from October 23 to 27. The 33-year-old Democratic socialist has captured 43% of the vote, positioning himself ahead of independent candidate Andrew M. Cuomo (33%) and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa (14%).
Mamdani, known for his grassroots campaign and strong social media presence, has built a movement focused on tackling New York’s cost-of-living crisis, housing challenges, and crime issues. Despite facing racist and Islamophobic attacks—including harsh criticism from Donald Trump, who branded him a “communist”—Mamdani has kept his campaign centered on working-class New Yorkers.
“I’m fighting for the very working people who were betrayed by Trump,” Mamdani said in a recent interview.
Political experts say Mamdani represents the voice of a new generation. Columbia University professor Lincoln Mitchell described him as a “unique political figure” who embodies the current moment’s energy. “A Muslim candidate for mayor of New York is an enormous story,” he told AFP.
According to the NYC Board of Elections, more than 275,000 Democrats, 46,000 Republicans, and 42,000 unaffiliated voters participated in early voting, which ended November 2.
A Movement Fueled by the Youth
Mamdani’s campaign has drawn massive support from young voters, with over 90,000 volunteers canvassing across the city. “When I think of Zohran, I think of Bernie Sanders,” said Abid Mahdi, a 15-year-old campaign volunteer from Queens.
The candidate also appeared alongside Senator Bernie Sanders at a Queens rally on October 26, further strengthening his progressive appeal.
While Governor Kathy Hochul made an appearance at a Mamdani rally, her centrist stance on taxation sparked “tax the rich” chants from the crowd—highlighting the deep ideological divide within the Democratic Party.
As Election Day approaches, Mamdani continues connecting with both young voters and senior citizens, attending community events from canvassing drives to “paint and pour” gatherings at elder care homes.
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