ISLAMABAD: In a major political upset, 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani has taken the lead in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary.
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded on Tuesday night, congratulating Mamdani in a brief speech.
“Tonight is his night,” Cuomo told supporters after the preliminary results showed Mamdani ahead.
With nearly 95% of ballot scanners reporting, Mamdani held 43.5% of the vote compared to Cuomo’s 36.4%.
Nine other Democratic contenders trailed behind.
In the words of Nelson Mandela: it always seems impossible until it’s done.
My friends, it is done. And you are the ones who did it.
I am honored to be your Democratic nominee for the Mayor of New York City. pic.twitter.com/AgW0Z30xw1
— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) June 25, 2025
Due to New York’s ranked-choice voting system, final results will not be confirmed until next week.
However, Mamdani’s lead appears too large for any rival to overcome.
Progressive Wave Displaces Political Veteran
Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, ran a grassroots campaign focused on progressive change.
He received endorsements from national figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Cuomo, a longtime political figure seeking a comeback after resigning amid harassment allegations, represented the party’s centrist establishment.
The contrast was clear: Mamdani promised a new political era, while Cuomo emphasized experience and moderation.
New York City voters responded with a call for generational and ideological change.
Many cited Cuomo’s past controversies as a reason for rejecting his candidacy.
From State Lawmaker to National Spotlight
Born in Uganda to a family of Indian descent, Mamdani would become NYC’s first Muslim mayor.
He has a strong base in Queens and a history of pro-Palestinian activism.
Voters described him as a refreshing alternative—young, bold, and representative of diverse communities.
Current Mayor Eric Adams, running as an independent, faces an uphill battle due to ongoing scandals.
Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa is also in the race but trails in a heavily Democratic city.
Mamdani is widely seen as the frontrunner for the general election in November.
