Mamdani pledges “new age” of affordability, inclusion, and people-first governance

NEW YORK November 5, 2025: In a groundbreaking victory that reshapes New York City’s political landscape, Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the new Mayor of New York City, becoming the first Muslim, the first South Asian, and the first African-born person to hold the position.

The 34-year-old Democratic socialist triumphed over former governor Andrew Cuomo in one of the most fiercely contested races in recent history, marking a defining political upset for America’s largest and most influential city.

“We have toppled a political dynasty”

Delivering an emotional victory speech in Brooklyn, Mamdani declared his win a mandate for change.

“My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty,” he told a roaring crowd at the Brooklyn Paramount. “The future is in our hands. New York, tonight you have delivered a mandate for a city we can afford.”

Quoting American socialist Eugene Debs, Mamdani added, “The sun may have set over our city this evening, but I can see the dawn of a better day for humanity.”

With 90% of votes counted, Mamdani secured 1,033,471 votes, leading Cuomo by nine percentage points. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa trailed with about 7% of the vote.

Campaign for affordability and fairness

Mamdani’s campaign was anchored in housing affordability, childcare expansion, and public transit reform. He pledged to freeze rent increases for tenants in rent-stabilized apartments, provide universal childcare, and make buses “fast and free.”

“In this moment of political darkness,” he said, “New York will be the light.”

More than 100,000 volunteers reportedly joined his campaign, mobilizing voters across the city’s five boroughs under the slogan: “A City for Everyone.”

A defiant response to Trump

Despite strong opposition from President Donald Trump, who endorsed Cuomo and branded Mamdani a “communist threat,” the young mayor-elect remained undeterred.

“Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up,” Mamdani said to thunderous applause.

He vowed to make New York “an example of how to defeat the forces of oligarchy and authoritarianism.”

Diversity, inclusion, and hope

Addressing his background, Mamdani reflected on his journey:

“The conventional wisdom would tell you that I am far from the perfect candidate. I am young, I am Muslim, I am a Democratic socialist — and I refuse to apologize for any of this.”

He pledged to build a city government that stands with Jewish New Yorkers and ensures that Muslims feel represented and included in civic life.

As chants of “Zohran! Zohran!” filled the venue, Mamdani concluded his speech with a message of optimism:

“Tonight we have spoken in a clear voice. Hope is alive.”