Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Mayoral Democratic Primary, Heads into Historic General Election Battle
In a major political upset, progressive State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani has secured the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor, NBC News projects, defeating powerful former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a ranked-choice primary.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, won 56% of the vote after ranked-choice tabulations, edging out Cuomo, who garnered 44%. The results include both in-person and mail-in ballots processed as of Primary Day.
This primary win sets up an extraordinary general election, where Mamdani will face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who is seeking re-election as an independent following the Justice Department’s dismissal of corruption charges against him. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa is also on the ballot, making it a rare three-way mayoral contest.
A Stunning Upset Over Cuomo
Cuomo, once considered the frontrunner, had asked voters for a second chance, citing his executive experience and anti-Trump credentials. Backed by elite Democrats and wealthy donors, Cuomo outspent his rivals by a wide margin. However, Mamdani’s grassroots campaign, fueled by volunteers and progressive energy, ultimately proved victorious.
Despite his loss, Cuomo will remain on the general election ballot through a third-party line, though it’s unclear whether he will actively campaign.
“Our campaign showed that more than 400,000 New Yorkers are ready for a new direction,” Mamdani said on NBC’s Meet the Press. “This race is a referendum on affordability and fairness — something Mayor Adams has failed to deliver.”
Who is Zohran Mamdani?
Born in Uganda to Indian parents and raised in Queens, Mamdani became a U.S. citizen in 2018. He was first elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020 after defeating a long-time incumbent, running on a platform backed by the Democratic Socialists of America.
His mayoral campaign has focused on tackling the city’s cost-of-living crisis, taxing the wealthy, and expanding public housing and transportation.
“This is about putting working people first,” Mamdani said. “We need a redistribution of wealth to serve all New Yorkers — not just the elite.”
Controversies and Opposition
Mamdani has faced criticism from conservatives and centrists alike. Former President Donald Trump called him a “100% Communist Lunatic” on Truth Social, while Cuomo and Jewish organizations criticized Mamdani for not outright condemning the slogan “globalize the intifada” during a podcast appearance.
Mamdani responded, “It’s not language I use, but I recognize the concerns. My focus is on my vision for a just and affordable New York.”
What’s Next?
Mamdani’s victory signals a growing divide in the Democratic Party, as progressives challenge establishment figures nationwide. With a strong base and national attention, Mamdani could become New York City’s first Muslim mayor if he defeats Adams and Cuomo in November.
The general election is expected to be fiercely contested, with all eyes on whether voters will embrace Mamdani’s progressive vision, support Adams’ centrist approach, or turn to a third-party comeback attempt by Cuomo.
🗳️ Stay with Harvkat News for continuing coverage of New York City’s historic 2025 mayoral election.
