Zohran Kwame Mamdani is an American public official who has been elected as the next mayor of New York City.
Affiliated with the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America, he has served in the New York State Assembly since 2021, representing the 36th district, which includes Astoria in Queens.
“People usually vote for what would most benefit them, I heard he’s mainly focused on the interest of the people so I think it’ll be nice for the diversity in New York,” said junior Teresa Kurishingal.
Before his election to the Assembly, Mr. Mamdani was active in community organizing, focusing on issues such as affordable housing, education, and economic inequality.
He has also worked in law and public policy, giving him experience in navigating the legislative and regulatory processes. In October 2024, Mr. Mamdani launched his bid for the 2025 mayoral race.
“I think since he is more left leaning he will cause a lot of controversy,” said junior Victoria Volum.
His campaign centered on making life more affordable for New Yorkers, proposing initiatives such as free bus service, universal public childcare, municipally owned grocery stores, a rent freeze for stabilized units, expansion of affordable housing, and raising the minimum wage to $30 by 2030.
He emphasized direct engagement with local communities, attending meetings and listening to constituents’ concerns to shape his policies. He also promoted broader reforms to public safety and called for increased taxes on corporations and high-income earners to fund these initiatives.
”I am not really sure who he is, but it seems like he has good intentions,” said junior Beatriz Nena.
Some of Mamdani’s past statements and positions have drawn attention. He has been critical of Israeli government policies toward Palestinians, which some groups have called controversial, while others note that he is criticizing policy, not the faith or Israel’s right to exist.
He has also spoken out against Hindu nationalism in India, drawing criticism from some Hindu and Indian-American organizations. Questions have been raised about donations from people living abroad, though his campaign maintains these contributions comply with legal regulations.
His progressive policies and identification as a Democratic Socialist have sparked debate about their feasibility and long-term impact on the city.
