New York has a new mayor now - Zohran Mamdani, democrat, socialist, ambitious. Among his poll promises were freezing rent and making childcare free. The 34-year-old ran New York's most ambitious mayoral campaign. His bold promises were what gained him massive attention, not just in the US but abroad. But this entire show, after winning the election, will have a major effect on Mamdani. New Yorkers' hopes are incredibly high now. And Mamdani has to deliver all those promises he made - and the road might not be that easy.&nbsp;Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. Usamah Andrabi, communications director at the progressive Justice Democrats organisation, told The Guardian, "I think for New Yorkers, it is a small light in what has been an overwhelming era of darkness.""Democratic voters – New Yorkers included – have had entrenched, corporate politicians like Andrew Cuomo stuffed down their throats as the only possible alternative to Republican representation,” Andrabi said.&nbsp;What’s his plan?&nbsp;Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. To do this, Mamdani will have to work with the New York state legislature. He will also have to negotiate with the New York governor, Kathy Hochul. She has earlier clarified that she opposes the idea of new income taxes.&nbsp;The big problem - Trump&nbsp;One prime problem Mamdani will have to deal with is the US President Donald Trump. The Republican has earlier threatened to hold funding for the city if Mamdani wins.In October, Mamdani launched his campaign with a video describing the cost of living in New York: the struggles people face with paying rent and for childcare, the battle to make ends meet.&nbsp;“Life doesn’t have to be this hard,” he said.&nbsp;After taking his post, taking Trump into consideration, Mamdani might say the same thing for being the NYC mayor.

Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. 

New York has a new mayor now - Zohran Mamdani, democrat, socialist, ambitious. Among his poll promises were freezing rent and making childcare free. The 34-year-old ran New York's most ambitious mayoral campaign. His bold promises were what gained him massive attention, not just in the US but abroad. But this entire show, after winning the election, will have a major effect on Mamdani. New Yorkers' hopes are incredibly high now. And Mamdani has to deliver all those promises he made - and the road might not be that easy. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. Usamah Andrabi, communications director at the progressive Justice Democrats organisation, told The Guardian, "I think for New Yorkers, it is a small light in what has been an overwhelming era of darkness." "Democratic voters – New Yorkers included – have had entrenched, corporate politicians like Andrew Cuomo stuffed down their throats as the only possible alternative to Republican representation,” Andrabi said. What’s his plan? Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. To do this, Mamdani will have to work with the New York state legislature. He will also have to negotiate with the New York governor, Kathy Hochul. She has earlier clarified that she opposes the idea of new income taxes. The big problem - Trump One prime problem Mamdani will have to deal with is the US President Donald Trump. The Republican has earlier threatened to hold funding for the city if Mamdani wins. In October, Mamdani launched his campaign with a video describing the cost of living in New York: the struggles people face with paying rent and for childcare, the battle to make ends meet. “Life doesn’t have to be this hard,” he said. After taking his post, taking Trump into consideration, Mamdani might say the same thing for being the NYC mayor.

Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers.&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani is going to face a big problem in New York as mayor

Zohran Mamdani has won New York mayoral polls. During the campaign, he was caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque. His old social media posts include showing the middle finger to a statue of Christopher Columbus in Astoria and a series of tweets in which he appears to be defending US cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who was linked to the terrorist group al-Qaida. He had also visited a Brooklyn mosque whose cleric had last year called for the “annihilation of Israel" and praised Hamas.&nbsp;<h2>Mamdani shows middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria</h2>In a tweet from June 2020 that has resurfaced on X after Mamdani's victory, he was seen showing a middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria and had written, "Take it down", calling for the removal of the statue. He was running for state office at that time. A report on the Times of India quoted Angelo Vivolo, the president of Columbus Heritage Coalition, saying that he will never support Mamdani. "We will defend Columbus Day and Columbus statues," he said. According per the report, left-wing politicians tend to target Columbus statues and Columbus Day because of how the explorer treated Native Americans when he sailed to North America.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Take it down. <a href="https://t.co/7Bmis8hnnh">pic.twitter.com/7Bmis8hnnh</a>&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1273410176003997697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Mamdani appears to defend Anwar al-Awlaki in old posts&nbsp;</h2>In yet another post from 2015 that has resurfaced now, Mamdani shared an article about the FBI’s surveillance of Anwar al-Awlaki, a US-born cleric later linked to the terror group al-Qaida and wrote on X (then Twitter), “Why no proper interrogation of what it means for the FBI to have conducted an extensive survey into Awlaki's private life?” In another post, he said, “How could Awlaki have ever trusted the FBI to not release surveillance, especially if he continued to critique the state? Why no further discussion of how Awlaki's knowledge of surveillance eventually led him to al-Qaeda? Or what does that say about the efficacy of surveillance?”<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gu5ZCDgWsAAFKZP?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" alt="Image"></figure>Al-Awlaki, born in New Mexico to Yemeni parents and was a well-known imam at mosques in San Diego and Virginia. According to a report by the New York Post, he had contact with three of the September 11, 2001, hijackers. He was also connected to multiple attacks and plots, including the Fort Hood shootings in November 2009. After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the FBI began monitoring him. In 2004, he went back to Yemen. In mid-2006, he was arrested by the Yemeni authorities and spent approximately one and a half year in jail. Post his release, he became hostile towards the US government, and by 2010, he appeared numerous times in the videos of al-Qaida. In 2010, Awlaki was placed on the US government’s official targeted-killing list, as authorised by President Barack Obama. That designation meant that, despite his US citizenship, Awlaki was considered a military enemy of the United States. On September 30, 2011, the Central Intelligence Agency used two drones to target Awlaki in Yemen, killing him.<h2>Zohran Mamdani in the Brooklyn mosque</h2>His visit to Brooklyn mosque also raised questions. In a video from inside the mosque, Mamdani can be seen standing beside cleric Sheikh Muhammad Al-Barr at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge. “It was a privilege to join Jummah prayers at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge today,” Mamdani captioned a post on January 17 this year. The post went viral as it was made five months after Al-Barr in a sermon at the same mosque, was heard appealing God to “liberate Palestine from the occupiers and the plunderers” and “annihilate” the occupiers. “Oh Allah, those who occupied their lands, and those who betrayed and deserted them, and those who spilled their blood,” Al-Barr said in Arabic, according to New York Post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It was a privilege to join Jummah prayers at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge today. <a href="https://t.co/3WjtQLohtv">pic.twitter.com/3WjtQLohtv</a>&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1880353202153099553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Same mosque. Same Imam. 5 months apart. To say Zohran Mamdani supports Islamic terrorism is an understatement. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEMRIReports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEMRIReports</a>: “Brooklyn Friday Sermon By Imam Muhammad Al-Barr: Oh Allah, Annihilate The Occupiers Of Palestine” <a href="https://t.co/XKlNdgsAN5">pic.twitter.com/XKlNdgsAN5</a> <a href="https://t.co/wNOg6Z1j9t">https://t.co/wNOg6Z1j9t</a>&mdash; Rod Sales 🏹 ✡︎🎗️ (@sanhedrin72a4) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanhedrin72a4/status/1938673463100874866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Zohran Mamdani's victory</h2>Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayoral elections to become the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary earlier this year, was facing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. Thanking the voters for the mandate, Mamdani said that New York will be the light in political darkness of the country. He directly addressed US President Donald Trump, took a swipe at now defeated Andrew Cuomo and then, came straight to the main point - his vision to make New York city “affordable and accessible.”&nbsp;

New York City's mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has been caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque during the Mayoral campaign trail amid continuous attacks by US President Donald Trump

Zohran Mamdani has won New York mayoral polls. During the campaign, he was caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque. His old social media posts include showing the middle finger to a statue of Christopher Columbus in Astoria and a series of tweets in which he appears to be defending US cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who was linked to the terrorist group al-Qaida. He had also visited a Brooklyn mosque whose cleric had last year called for the “annihilation of Israel" and praised Hamas. Mamdani shows middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria In a tweet from June 2020 that has resurfaced on X after Mamdani's victory, he was seen showing a middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria and had written, "Take it down", calling for the removal of the statue. He was running for state office at that time. A report on the Times of India quoted Angelo Vivolo, the president of Columbus Heritage Coalition, saying that he will never support Mamdani. "We will defend Columbus Day and Columbus statues," he said. According per the report, left-wing politicians tend to target Columbus statues and Columbus Day because of how the explorer treated Native Americans when he sailed to North America.

New York City's mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has been caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque during the Mayoral campaign trail amid continuous attacks by US President Donald Trump

Middle finger to Columbus, pic with anti-Israel cleric, questions on al-Qaeda terrorist: When Mamdani landed into controversy for social media posts

Bollywood’s elite—from Zoya Akhtar to Ishaan Khatter—are cheering the landmark victory of Zohran Mamdani, as the film fraternity honors his triumph and what it means for representation.

Film Fraternity Celebrates Mamdani’s Historic Win |  Zoya Akhtar to Ishaan Khatter | WION 

The New York Mayoral Election winner Zohran Mamdani, in his first speech, addressed US President Donald Trump and sent a four-word message to him. He asked the US president to turn the volume on for listening his speech. As the crowd cheered for Mamdani, he dared the US president and said that New Yorkers are united in against him. As he spoke, Trump shared a post on Truth Social saying, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!"&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-city-s-mayoral-election-defeats-trump-backed-andrew-cuomo-curtis-sliwa-1762310323558">Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo</a>&nbsp;"Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.” Enthusiastic crowd cheered over his powerful message as he continued and said, “If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to overcome, it’s the city that gave rise to him."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Mamdani: &quot;Donald Trump, since I know you&#39;re watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AOFUquvYBQ">pic.twitter.com/AOFUquvYBQ</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1985929807998128324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us,” Mamdani declared. Vowing to end "the culture of corruption" that allowed billionaires like Trump to evade fair taxation, he said, "alongside unions and expand labor protections because we know, just as Donald Trump does, that when working people have ironclad rights, the bosses who seek to extort them become very small indeed.” Hailing the decision taken by New Yorkers, Mamdani said that they have shown that "hope is alive," promising, "In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light."&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-have-toppled-political-dynasty-mamdani-s-first-reaction-after-big-win-in-ny-mayoral-polls-1762316914172"> ‘We have toppled political dynasty’: Mamdani’s first reaction after BIG win in NY mayoral polls</a>&nbsp;Mamdani became the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. He will also be the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. He will take office on January 1, 2026. Born in Kampala, Uganda, but was brought up with his family in New York City, Mamdani became American citizen in 2018. His mother, Mira Nair, is a celebrated film director and his father Professor Mahmood Mamdani, teaches at Columbia. Both of them are Harvard alumni.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-mayor-elections-but-he-opposes-pm-modi-here-s-why-1762317715428">Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American and youngest New York mayor-elect, delivered a bold message to Donald Trump: “Turn the volume up.” He vowed to fight corruption, defend workers’ rights, and make New York “the light” in political darkness after defeating Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo.

The New York Mayoral Election winner Zohran Mamdani, in his first speech, addressed US President Donald Trump and sent a four-word message to him. He asked the US president to turn the volume on for listening his speech. As the crowd cheered for Mamdani, he dared the US president and said that New Yorkers are united in against him. As he spoke, Trump shared a post on Truth Social saying, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!" Read More | Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo "Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.” Enthusiastic crowd cheered over his powerful message as he continued and said, “If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to overcome, it’s the city that gave rise to him."

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American and youngest New York mayor-elect, delivered a bold message to Donald Trump: “Turn the volume up.” He vowed to fight corruption, defend workers’ rights, and make New York “the light” in political darkness after defeating Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo.

'I know your are...': Zohran Mamdani's four-word message for Trump in first speech after winning NY mayoral polls

Zohran Mamdani has become the New York City mayor. But the enthusiasm for the 34-year-old Democrat becoming a national-level politician akin to Barack Obama might be misplaced. The direct endorsement of Mamdani by the former president gave the NYC mayoral race, essentially a local election in the US, renewed global attention. This is partly due to Mamdani’s origin—Indian and Muslim roots—and his political stance on controversial issues like the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani is New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. In case you have not noticed him yet, it is high time.<h2>Who is Zohran Mamdani?</h2>Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on 18 October 1991 in Kampala, Uganda, to Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani and Indian-origin filmmaker Mira Nair. He moved to New York City at the age of seven and later studied at Bowdoin College. He co-founded the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter during college, and was active in community organising and hip-hop. Before entering politics, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure-prevention housing counsellor in Queens.Mamdani joined the Democratic Socialists of America and challenged the Democratic establishment.<h2>Mamdani’s political career</h2>In 2020, Mamdani defeated five-term incumbent Aravella Simotas to win a seat in the New York State Assembly. Representing Astoria, Queens, he worked on tenant rights, public transit funding, and taxi driver debt relief, including a hunger strike that secured $450 million in aid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-much-better-looking-person-is-zohran-mamdani-left-wing-version-of-trump-here-s-what-us-president-said-1762132235241">'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said</a><h2>Mamdani’s mayoral race is focused on local issues</h2>Mamdani’s mayoral campaign focused on affordability and social equity. He advocated freezing rents, fare-free buses, universal childcare, city-owned grocery stores, and a 30-dollar minimum wage by 2030. He also wants to tax corporations and millionaires with the aim of raising nine billion dollars.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-new-york-mayor-election-2025-updates-obama-offers-support-to-zohran-mamdani-donald-trump-us-elections-nyc-mayor-1762254876191">New York Mayor Election 2025 updates: Obama offers support to Zohran Mamdani</a><h2>Is Mamdani the next Obama?</h2>Some media outlets and observers compared Mamdani to a “young Obama.” The comparisons are based on similar life stories: fathers who were East African scholars, backgrounds in community organising, and the ability to appeal to younger voters through personal charisma and authenticity.While the comparison is appealing, it is possibly overstated. Obama’s message was broadly unifying and centrist, whereas Mamdani’s is more radical and divisive. Obama aimed to appeal across the political spectrum, while Mamdani’s rhetoric and policies are tailored to the Democratic Socialist left.<h2>Mamdani cannot become US president because…</h2>Mamdani cannot legally become President of the United States because he is not a natural-born citizen. He was naturalised in 2018, and regardless of his popularity, Mamdani will never be able to run for president under the current law.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-best-mayor-potus-endorses-cuomo-for-nyc-mayor-says-will-stop-federal-funding-if-communist-candidate-zohran-mamdani-wins-1762229434725">Trump’s 'best NYC mayor'? POTUS endorses Cuomo, says will stop federal funding if 'Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani' wins</a><h2>How high can Mamdani go?</h2>Mamdani can run for the US Senate, the House of Representatives, or even Governor of New York. He could become a figurehead for a new generation of left-leaning politicians. With support from the Democratic Socialists of America, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders, he could emerge as a national progressive voice.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed</a><h2>Mamdani is a polarising figure</h2>Mamdani’s stances on foreign affairs, particularly on Israel and Palestine, have made him a deeply polarising figure. During the Gaza war, he called Israel’s actions genocide while refusing to condemn the slogan “globalise the intifada.” He has both fervent supporters and harsh opponents. Republicans, including President Donald Trump, label him a communist or terrorist sympathiser. Even some Democrats, such as Hakeem Jeffries and John Fetterman, have publicly distanced themselves from him.Yet, in a city as politically diverse as New York, his outspokenness may strengthen his local base even as it limits his national appeal.<h2>A significant rise for an unlikely politician</h2>Nevertheless, Zohran Mamdani’s rise from a Queens housing counsellor to likely New York City mayor is one of the most remarkable political stories of the decade, a trajectory possible only in America, or more specifically, New York.Even though his charisma and commitment to social justice echo aspects of Obama’s early career, their paths diverge sharply: Obama became president by appealing to the centre, while Mamdani inspires the left by challenging it. Mamdani may never sit in the Oval Office, but he could still reshape New York City politics and emerge as one of the most influential progressive politicians in the United States.

Zohran Mamdani may become NYC’s first Muslim and Indian-origin mayor. The progressive figure is being compared to Obama, but legal and political limits would limit his political career. Here is what you should know about him

Zohran Mamdani has become the New York City mayor. But the enthusiasm for the 34-year-old Democrat becoming a national-level politician akin to Barack Obama might be misplaced. The direct endorsement of Mamdani by the former president gave the NYC mayoral race, essentially a local election in the US, renewed global attention. This is partly due to Mamdani’s origin—Indian and Muslim roots—and his political stance on controversial issues like the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani is New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. In case you have not noticed him yet, it is high time. Who is Zohran Mamdani? Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on 18 October 1991 in Kampala, Uganda, to Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani and Indian-origin filmmaker Mira Nair. He moved to New York City at the age of seven and later studied at Bowdoin College. He co-founded the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter during college, and was active in community organising and hip-hop. Before entering politics, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure-prevention housing counsellor in Queens. Mamdani joined the Democratic Socialists of America and challenged the Democratic establishment. Mamdani’s political career In 2020, Mamdani defeated five-term incumbent Aravella Simotas to win a seat in the New York State Assembly. Representing Astoria, Queens, he worked on tenant rights, public transit funding, and taxi driver debt relief, including a hunger strike that secured $450 million in aid. Also read: 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said Mamdani’s mayoral race is focused on local issues Mamdani’s mayoral campaign focused on affordability and social equity. He advocated freezing rents, fare-free buses, universal childcare, city-owned grocery stores, and a 30-dollar minimum wage by 2030. He also wants to tax corporations and millionaires with the aim of raising nine billion dollars. Also read: New York Mayor Election 2025 updates: Obama offers support to Zohran Mamdani Is Mamdani the next Obama? Some media outlets and observers compared Mamdani to a “young Obama.” The comparisons are based on similar life stories: fathers who were East African scholars, backgrounds in community organising, and the ability to appeal to younger voters through personal charisma and authenticity. While the comparison is appealing, it is possibly overstated. Obama’s message was broadly unifying and centrist, whereas Mamdani’s is more radical and divisive. Obama aimed to appeal across the political spectrum, while Mamdani’s rhetoric and policies are tailored to the Democratic Socialist left. Mamdani cannot become US president because… Mamdani cannot legally become President of the United States because he is not a natural-born citizen. He was naturalised in 2018, and regardless of his popularity, Mamdani will never be able to run for president under the current law. Also read: Trump’s 'best NYC mayor'? POTUS endorses Cuomo, says will stop federal funding if 'Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani' wins How high can Mamdani go? Mamdani can run for the US Senate, the House of Representatives, or even Governor of New York. He could become a figurehead for a new generation of left-leaning politicians. With support from the Democratic Socialists of America, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders, he could emerge as a national progressive voice. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed Mamdani is a polarising figure Mamdani’s stances on foreign affairs, particularly on Israel and Palestine, have made him a deeply polarising figure. During the Gaza war, he called Israel’s actions genocide while refusing to condemn the slogan “globalise the intifada.” He has both fervent supporters and harsh opponents. Republicans, including President Donald Trump, label him a communist or terrorist sympathiser. Even some Democrats, such as Hakeem Jeffries and John Fetterman, have publicly distanced themselves from him. Yet, in a city as politically diverse as New York, his outspokenness may strengthen his local base even as it limits his national appeal. A significant rise for an unlikely politician Nevertheless, Zohran Mamdani’s rise from a Queens housing counsellor to likely New York City mayor is one of the most remarkable political stories of the decade, a trajectory possible only in America, or more specifically, New York. Even though his charisma and commitment to social justice echo aspects of Obama’s early career, their paths diverge sharply: Obama became president by appealing to the centre, while Mamdani inspires the left by challenging it. Mamdani may never sit in the Oval Office, but he could still reshape New York City politics and emerge as one of the most influential progressive politicians in the United States.

Zohran Mamdani has become NYC’s first Muslim and Indian-origin mayor. The progressive figure is being compared to Obama, but legal and political limits would curb his political career. Here is what you should know about him

Zohran Mamdani is New York City mayor, but is he the next Obama? Hold your horses and read this

Democratic leader Zohran Mamdani created history with a sweeping victory as New York’s first Muslim mayor, and his mother, Indian American filmmaker Mira Nair, is filled with joy. On Tuesday, after the result was announced, the 68-year-old acclaimed director shared her first reaction to this milestone moment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/how-14-year-old-zohran-mamdani-helped-mother-mira-nair-in-choosing-between-harry-potter-4-and-the-namesake-1762331645279">How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair in choosing between Harry Potter 4 and The Namesake</a>&nbsp;She reposted an Instagram story shared by filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, who sent wishes to Mamdani, saying, "Zohran, you beauty," along with heart and fireworks emojis. The photo posted by Zoya read, "Zohran Mamdani has officially won the NYC mayoral race at 34 years old." The reshared post was Nair's first acknowledgment of her son’s victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/did-you-know-nyc-s-new-mayor-zohran-mamdani-is-son-of-oscar-nominated-director-mira-nair-1762331067142">Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of cinematic Mira Nair</a><h2>Zohran Mamdani's historic win</h2>Zohran Mamdani won New York's mayoral chair, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa in a closely watched contest. The 34-year-old, while addressing the crowd, said, "I am young and I am a Muslim. I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim." &nbsp;&nbsp;He further promises a mandate for change, "New York, tonight you have delivered a mandate for change… I will wake up each morning with one purpose: to make this city better for you than it was the day before."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/border-2-varun-dhawan-s-soldier-avatar-in-the-battlefield-is-fierce-intense-1762325230612">Border 2: Varun Dhawan's soldier avatar in the battlefield is fierce &amp; intense</a><h2>Who is Mira Nair</h2>Today, you might know Mira Nair as Zohran Mamdani's mother, but she is an acclaimed filmmaker who has won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes and earned an Oscar nomination. Born in Rourkela, India, in 1957, she loves exploring and understanding identity, migration, and cultural intersections. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/the-night-manager-season-2-first-look-tom-hiddleston-returns-as-jonathan-pine-to-uncover-another-deadly-political-conspiracy-1762329150477">The Night Manager Season 2 first look; Tom Hiddleston returns as Jonathan Pine</a>&nbsp;Graduated from Harvard, she debuted in the film Salaam Bombay! (1988), which was appreciated globally. Her other works include Mississippi Masala (1991), Monsoon Wedding (2001), and The Namesake (2006). She shares son Zohran Mamdani with her husband, Mahmood Mamdani, an Indo-Ugandan political scientist.&nbsp;

The historic win of the democratic leader Zohran Mamdani has sparked celebration across New York, but his mother Mira Nair's first reaction has grabbed quite a lot of attention on social media. 

Democratic leader Zohran Mamdani created history with a sweeping victory as New York’s first Muslim mayor, and his mother, Indian American filmmaker Mira Nair, is filled with joy. On Tuesday, after the result was announced, the 68-year-old acclaimed director shared her first reaction to this milestone moment. Also Read: How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair in choosing between Harry Potter 4 and The Namesake She reposted an Instagram story shared by filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, who sent wishes to Mamdani, saying, "Zohran, you beauty," along with heart and fireworks emojis. The photo posted by Zoya read, "Zohran Mamdani has officially won the NYC mayoral race at 34 years old." The reshared post was Nair's first acknowledgment of her son’s victory. Also Read: Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of cinematic Mira Nair Zohran Mamdani's historic win Zohran Mamdani won New York's mayoral chair, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa in a closely watched contest. The 34-year-old, while addressing the crowd, said, "I am young and I am a Muslim. I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim." He further promises a mandate for change, "New York, tonight you have delivered a mandate for change… I will wake up each morning with one purpose: to make this city better for you than it was the day before." Also Read: Border 2: Varun Dhawan's soldier avatar in the battlefield is fierce & intense Who is Mira Nair Today, you might know Mira Nair as Zohran Mamdani's mother, but she is an acclaimed filmmaker who has won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes and earned an Oscar nomination. Born in Rourkela, India, in 1957, she loves exploring and understanding identity, migration, and cultural intersections. Also Read: The Night Manager Season 2 first look; Tom Hiddleston returns as Jonathan Pine Graduated from Harvard, she debuted in the film Salaam Bombay! (1988), which was appreciated globally. Her other works include Mississippi Masala (1991), Monsoon Wedding (2001), and The Namesake (2006). She shares son Zohran Mamdani with her husband, Mahmood Mamdani, an Indo-Ugandan political scientist.

The historic win of the democratic leader Zohran Mamdani has sparked celebration across New York, but his mother Mira Nair's first reaction has grabbed quite a lot of attention on social media.&nbsp;

Mira Nair celebrates son Zohran Mamdani's historic win; her FIRST reaction goes viral

Zohran Mamdani's election as the Mayor of New York City was watched globally. The rise of a Muslim to the key post in the city that witnessed the 9/11 attacks, the worst act of Islamist terror on US soil, is seen as problematic by many: from Trump-supporting MAGA Republicans to pro-Israel groups and even some New Yorkers and Democrats. Here is what they think.<h2>New York City, forever scarred by 9/11 terrorist attack&nbsp;</h2>Almost a quarter of a century ago, the 11 September 2001 terror attacks claimed 2,977 lives in the US. For many, it would have been inconceivable that a Muslim could be leading City Hall in 2025. But the 34‑year-old democratic socialist has overcome the barriers. The practising Muslim is now the 111th mayor of New York City, whether his detractors like it or hate it.It has been a meteoric rise for Mamdani, from a little‑known Queens assemblyman to the city’s first Muslim, Indian, South Asian, and Millennial mayor. While it is historic, his rise is problematic for many Republicans, New Yorkers, and even some moderate Democrats.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-mayor-elections-but-he-opposes-pm-modi-here-s-why-1762317715428">Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why</a><h2>Why Mamdani’s rise evokes unease in a nation known for Islamophobia</h2>Beyond the Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism at the core of some views against him, Mamdani’s own statements, writings, and associations have contributed to public concern. In these, he appeared to downplay the horror of 9/11, while foregrounding Islamphpobia in post-9/11 America. For his critics, he seemed to align with anti‑American and anti‑Israel rhetoric. Hed has been accused of prioritising narratives of Muslim victimhood over the city’s collective trauma.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/controversial-remarks-of-zohran-mamdani-new-york-city-mayor-find-out-what-he-said-about-india-narendra-modi-bjp-rss-1762322572388">Controversial remarks of Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayor: Find out what he said about India, Narendra Modi, BJP, RSS</a><h2>Mamdani’s rise stirs an unusual convergence of concern across the political spectrum</h2>Led by President Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans, Mamdani’s identity as a Muslim and a democratic socialist is being seen as a symbolic rupture in the US political narrative, which has often depicted Muslims as the enemy. Trump launched a scathing attack following Mamdani’s primary win, calling him a “100 per cent Communist Lunatic.” He went further, criticising Mamdani’s “grating voice” and “terrible looks” as emblematic of what he described as a “radical left‑wing takeover.”Trump’s rhetoric taps directly into lingering fears among Republicans, far-right groups, and conservatives about Islamist terrorism. For them, Mamdani is not just a political rival but a cultural and security threat to the city’s identity, scarred by 9/11.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-reveals-real-reason-why-he-is-critical-of-indian-pm-modi-bjp-1761118768748">Zohran Mamdani on temple run in Diwali, reveals REAL reason why he is critical of Indian PM Modi</a><h2>For many New Yorkers, 9/11 is a wound yet to heal</h2>For a generation of New Yorkers, particularly survivors of 9/11 who walked through ash-choked streets on that fateful day, Mamdani’s rise brings both symbolic and real unease. His public remarks about being Muslim and facing suspicion after 9/11 are well-known. One widely cited anecdote involves his aunt, who reportedly stopped taking the subway because she did not feel safe in her hijab. Critics have interpreted such remarks as foregrounding his family’s social discomfort over the deaths of thousands.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed</a><h2>Mamdani's radical reform agenda is likely to face opposition</h2>Mamdani is a populist in his own way, with a policy platform that includes radical reform of the New York Police Department and the redirection of resources from traditional security priorities.For all its glamour, New York remains a heavily policed, high-security city since 9/11. Mamdani's security reform plans have fuelled concerns among residents who feel that ideological goals might override pragmatic public safety issues in a city ever-vigilant against terrorism.<h2>Mamdani is not universally liked within his own Democratic Party</h2>Although he ran as a Democratic candidate, Mamdani has roots in the democratic socialist wing and belongs to the more vocal, left-leaning sections of the party. His candidacy and victory prompted hesitation among moderate Democrats. They view his ideological commitments and relative lack of executive experience as potential liabilities.Business leaders and centrist voices have expressed alarm too, with Wall Street strategists reportedly mobilising hedge fund and real estate donors to oppose his general election bid, fearing a radical shift—or a socialist takeover—of the city’s governance and economy. His vocal criticism of US policy toward Israel and support for Palestinian rights have also raised concerns that Democrats are providing conservatives with potent attack lines for the 2026 midterm elections.<h2>Will Mamdani bring a fresh way of looking at politics in New York and America?</h2>While supporters celebrate the diversity and fresh perspective Mamdani brings, critics argue that these virtues should not erase the need for clear commitment to New York’s resilience against terror.In the metropolis where the Freedom Tower stands as a defiant memorial opposing jihadist ideology, electing a leader who has appeared, to some, to be an apologist for 9/11 while focusing on Islamophobia feels like a betrayal of hard-won ground for many New Yorkers.

Zohran Mamdani's election as NYC's first Muslim mayor is sparking concern among Republicans, some Democrats, and 9/11 survivors. At issue are security, ideology, and sensitivity to the city’s history of terror attacks. 

Zohran Mamdani's election as the Mayor of New York City was watched globally. The rise of a Muslim to the key post in the city that witnessed the 9/11 attacks, the worst act of Islamist terror on US soil, is seen as problematic by many: from Trump-supporting MAGA Republicans to pro-Israel groups and even some New Yorkers and Democrats. Here is what they think. New York City, forever scarred by 9/11 terrorist attack Almost a quarter of a century ago, the 11 September 2001 terror attacks claimed 2,977 lives in the US. For many, it would have been inconceivable that a Muslim could be leading City Hall in 2025. But the 34‑year-old democratic socialist has overcome the barriers. The practising Muslim is now the 111th mayor of New York City, whether his detractors like it or hate it. It has been a meteoric rise for Mamdani, from a little‑known Queens assemblyman to the city’s first Muslim, Indian, South Asian, and Millennial mayor. While it is historic, his rise is problematic for many Republicans, New Yorkers, and even some moderate Democrats. Also read: Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why Why Mamdani’s rise evokes unease in a nation known for Islamophobia Beyond the Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism at the core of some views against him, Mamdani’s own statements, writings, and associations have contributed to public concern. In these, he appeared to downplay the horror of 9/11, while foregrounding Islamphpobia in post-9/11 America. For his critics, he seemed to align with anti‑American and anti‑Israel rhetoric. Hed has been accused of prioritising narratives of Muslim victimhood over the city’s collective trauma. Also read: Controversial remarks of Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayor: Find out what he said about India, Narendra Modi, BJP, RSS Mamdani’s rise stirs an unusual convergence of concern across the political spectrum Led by President Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans, Mamdani’s identity as a Muslim and a democratic socialist is being seen as a symbolic rupture in the US political narrative, which has often depicted Muslims as the enemy. Trump launched a scathing attack following Mamdani’s primary win, calling him a “100 per cent Communist Lunatic.” He went further, criticising Mamdani’s “grating voice” and “terrible looks” as emblematic of what he described as a “radical left‑wing takeover.” Trump’s rhetoric taps directly into lingering fears among Republicans, far-right groups, and conservatives about Islamist terrorism. For them, Mamdani is not just a political rival but a cultural and security threat to the city’s identity, scarred by 9/11. Also read: Zohran Mamdani on temple run in Diwali, reveals REAL reason why he is critical of Indian PM Modi For many New Yorkers, 9/11 is a wound yet to heal For a generation of New Yorkers, particularly survivors of 9/11 who walked through ash-choked streets on that fateful day, Mamdani’s rise brings both symbolic and real unease. His public remarks about being Muslim and facing suspicion after 9/11 are well-known. One widely cited anecdote involves his aunt, who reportedly stopped taking the subway because she did not feel safe in her hijab. Critics have interpreted such remarks as foregrounding his family’s social discomfort over the deaths of thousands. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed Mamdani's radical reform agenda is likely to face opposition Mamdani is a populist in his own way, with a policy platform that includes radical reform of the New York Police Department and the redirection of resources from traditional security priorities. For all its glamour, New York remains a heavily policed, high-security city since 9/11. Mamdani's security reform plans have fuelled concerns among residents who feel that ideological goals might override pragmatic public safety issues in a city ever-vigilant against terrorism. Mamdani is not universally liked within his own Democratic Party Although he ran as a Democratic candidate, Mamdani has roots in the democratic socialist wing and belongs to the more vocal, left-leaning sections of the party. His candidacy and victory prompted hesitation among moderate Democrats. They view his ideological commitments and relative lack of executive experience as potential liabilities. Business leaders and centrist voices have expressed alarm too, with Wall Street strategists reportedly mobilising hedge fund and real estate donors to oppose his general election bid, fearing a radical shift—or a socialist takeover—of the city’s governance and economy. His vocal criticism of US policy toward Israel and support for Palestinian rights have also raised concerns that Democrats are providing conservatives with potent attack lines for the 2026 midterm elections. Will Mamdani bring a fresh way of looking at politics in New York and America? While supporters celebrate the diversity and fresh perspective Mamdani brings, critics argue that these virtues should not erase the need for clear commitment to New York’s resilience against terror. In the metropolis where the Freedom Tower stands as a defiant memorial opposing jihadist ideology, electing a leader who has appeared, to some, to be an apologist for 9/11 while focusing on Islamophobia feels like a betrayal of hard-won ground for many New Yorkers.

Zohran Mamdani's election as NYC's first Muslim mayor is sparking concern among Republicans, some Democrats, and 9/11 survivors. At issue are security, ideology, and sensitivity to the city’s history of terror attacks.&nbsp;

Why many love to hate Zohran Mamdani: First Muslim mayor at Ground Zero of 9/11 Islamist terror attack is problematic for them

New York has chosen Democratic Party’s Zohran Mamdani as its 111th&nbsp;mayor. Zohran is the first Muslim mayor and first person of South Asian descent to lead the city in its 400-year history. While Zohran has won the election purely on his own merit, his parents are too celebrities in their own right. Zohran is the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor and a scholar on colonialism.&nbsp;&nbsp;Zohran’s mother, Mira Nair, is a very well-known filmmaker in India and the world and has made some iconic films, including Salaam Bombay, Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake- all of which are considered global hits. Interestingly, Mira credits her son Zohran for helping her at a crucial juncture in her career.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Choosing The Namesake over Harry Potter 4</h2>During the 2018 edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, Mira Nair had revealed that she was offered to direct the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire film by Warner Bros. Mira spoke during a session at the Lit Fest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The filmmaker admitted that she was confused about whether she should take up the offer since she was already working on The Namesake.&nbsp;“I also turned down Harry Potter. They saw Vanity Fair, and they saw how vibrant and whatever voluptuous and successful for them, this was Warner Brothers, and they thought well, they'd had a big success with Alfonso Cuaron from Mexico making Harry Potter 3, so why not get the third-world rainbow coalition making Harry Potter 4,” she said.&nbsp;“I was deep into making The Namesake at that time from a beautiful novel by Jhumpa Lahiri. I had suffered my very first death in my family, my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me, and an unexpected death due to medical malpractice, and it completely blew me away. I was deep in that melancholy, and that's what inspired me to make The Namesake because Jhumpa has written in it of this terrible melancholy of losing a parent in a foreign country, which is exactly what I was experiencing. So I was deep in the throes of like almost a month away from shooting The Namesake, and they offered me Harry Potter, and I thought I had to take these meetings because my son had learned to read from Harry Potter.”&nbsp;Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/did-you-know-nyc-s-new-mayor-zohran-mamdani-is-son-of-oscar-nominated-director-mira-nair-1762331067142">Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of Oscar-nominated director Mira Nair</a>&nbsp;Zohran was 14 back when Mira Nair was offered to make Harry Potter 4. The filmmaker revealed that he gave a crucial piece of advice to his mom, that changed her career trajectory for the better.&nbsp;&nbsp;The filmmaker had wondered if she should give up on The Namesake and take up directing Harry Potter.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I asked my 14-year-old son what I should do and he said to me, 'Mama many good directors can make Harry Potter but only you can make The Namesake’, and it was such a liberating and clarifying statement,” the filmmaker recalled.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dhoom-macchale-zohran-mamdani-brings-bollywood-to-ny-mentions-nehru-in-first-speech-after-win-watch-1762321650710">Dhoom macchale! Mamdani brings Bollywood to NY, mentions Nehru - WATCH</a>&nbsp;The Namesake starred Irrfan, Tabu, and Kal Penn in leading roles. Based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s book by the same name, the film remains one of the best representations of Immigrant life in America. A story of love and loss, and the great divide between Indian parents and their US-born children, The Namesake earned critical praise worldwide.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>About Zohran Mamdani&nbsp;</h2>Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York City on Tuesday. The 33-year-old, far-left state lawmaker has promised to transform the government to restore power to the working class and fight back against a hostile Trump administration. Mamdani, a Democrat, defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.&nbsp;Born to Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran was born in Uganda and moved to New York with his parents at the age of 7. He attended Bronx High School of Science and Bowdoin College in Maine. Zohran has dabbled in multiple careers before he joined politics, including working on sets of his mother’s films, and even was a rap artist for a brief period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Mayor of New York City helped his mother, the illustrious filmmaker Mira Nair at a crucial juncture in her career. Nair revealed earlier that she was offered to direct Harry Potter 4 at a time when she was making The Namesake. 

New York has chosen Democratic Party’s Zohran Mamdani as its 111th mayor. Zohran is the first Muslim mayor and first person of South Asian descent to lead the city in its 400-year history. While Zohran has won the election purely on his own merit, his parents are too celebrities in their own right. Zohran is the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor and a scholar on colonialism. Zohran’s mother, Mira Nair, is a very well-known filmmaker in India and the world and has made some iconic films, including Salaam Bombay, Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake- all of which are considered global hits. Interestingly, Mira credits her son Zohran for helping her at a crucial juncture in her career. Choosing The Namesake over Harry Potter 4 During the 2018 edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, Mira Nair had revealed that she was offered to direct the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire film by Warner Bros. Mira spoke during a session at the Lit Fest. The filmmaker admitted that she was confused about whether she should take up the offer since she was already working on The Namesake. “I also turned down Harry Potter. They saw Vanity Fair, and they saw how vibrant and whatever voluptuous and successful for them, this was Warner Brothers, and they thought well, they'd had a big success with Alfonso Cuaron from Mexico making Harry Potter 3, so why not get the third-world rainbow coalition making Harry Potter 4,” she said. “I was deep into making The Namesake at that time from a beautiful novel by Jhumpa Lahiri. I had suffered my very first death in my family, my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me, and an unexpected death due to medical malpractice, and it completely blew me away. I was deep in that melancholy, and that's what inspired me to make The Namesake because Jhumpa has written in it of this terrible melancholy of losing a parent in a foreign country, which is exactly what I was experiencing. So I was deep in the throes of like almost a month away from shooting The Namesake, and they offered me Harry Potter, and I thought I had to take these meetings because my son had learned to read from Harry Potter.” Also see: Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of Oscar-nominated director Mira Nair Zohran was 14 back when Mira Nair was offered to make Harry Potter 4. The filmmaker revealed that he gave a crucial piece of advice to his mom, that changed her career trajectory for the better. The filmmaker had wondered if she should give up on The Namesake and take up directing Harry Potter. "I asked my 14-year-old son what I should do and he said to me, 'Mama many good directors can make Harry Potter but only you can make The Namesake’, and it was such a liberating and clarifying statement,” the filmmaker recalled. Also see: Dhoom macchale! Mamdani brings Bollywood to NY, mentions Nehru - WATCH The Namesake starred Irrfan, Tabu, and Kal Penn in leading roles. Based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s book by the same name, the film remains one of the best representations of Immigrant life in America. A story of love and loss, and the great divide between Indian parents and their US-born children, The Namesake earned critical praise worldwide. About Zohran Mamdani Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York City on Tuesday. The 33-year-old, far-left state lawmaker has promised to transform the government to restore power to the working class and fight back against a hostile Trump administration. Mamdani, a Democrat, defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Born to Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran was born in Uganda and moved to New York with his parents at the age of 7. He attended Bronx High School of Science and Bowdoin College in Maine. Zohran has dabbled in multiple careers before he joined politics, including working on sets of his mother’s films, and even was a rap artist for a brief period.

Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Mayor of New York City helped his mother, the illustrious filmmaker Mira Nair at a crucial juncture in her career. Nair revealed earlier that she was offered to direct Harry Potter 4 at a time when she was making The Namesake.&nbsp;

How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair choose between Harry Potter 4 and The Namesake

Mamdani Victory Speech: In his victory speech after winning the New York City mayoral race in 2025, Zohran Mamdani declared New York will be “a light in political darkness.”  The democratic socialist, who is the city’s youngest and first Muslim mayor, promised to stand against Islamophobia and antisemitism, pledging support for immigrants, labor, and economic justice. He directly challenged President Donald Trump

Mamdani, NY First Muslim Mayor, Pledges to Combat Hate and Inequality in Victory Speech 

Scripting history, Democrat Zohran Mamdani has won the New York mayoral elections on November 4, defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the first Muslim and first Asian American to lead the mayor’s office of America’s biggest city.&nbsp;Soon after Zohran’s victory was announced, everyone was quick to Google the new NYC mayor, his origins, background, and family, and many were surprised to learn that he is the son of acclaimed Indian filmmaker Mira Nair.&nbsp;<h2>Who are Zohran Mamdani’s parents?</h2>He was born in Kampala, Uganda, in 1991 to Indian-origin parents, Mahmood Mamdani and Mira Nair. Mahmood is a Ugandan scholar of Indian heritage, a prominent academic and political commentator, and a professor of anthropology at Columbia University. Mira Nair, his mother, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker.&nbsp;Mahmood and Mira raised Zohran in Uganda and South Africa before they moved to New York, which became home to the family of three.&nbsp;Growing up in a household shaped by multiple diasporas and growing up in the countries, thousands of kilometres away from his parents’ homelands, Zohran always stayed rooted in his Indian and Ugandan heritage as he grew up in American society.&nbsp;Being the son of a renowned filmmaker, Mamdani grew up on film sets, immersed in the world of cinema through his mother. Throughout his campaign, India and Indian cinema have often taken the spotlight as he never forgets to quote famous dialogues from Bollywood classics, a sign of his mother’s cinematic influence. Whether it was a line from the legendary film Deewar or the Bollywood song “Dhoom Machale” playing during his victory speech, his love for film clearly shines through.&nbsp;While Zohran is often seen celebrating typical masala films, his mother's work reflected a different kind of cinema, one that focuses on realism, emotion, social commentary and the complexities of cultural identity.&nbsp;<h2>Mira, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and a Cannes winner</h2>&nbsp;His mother, Mira Nair, is one of India’s most acclaimed filmmakers, known for telling stories that explore gender, migration, and marginality. She moved from India to build an award-winning international career, often focusing on people living between cultures.Born in India, she went on to study at Harvard University, where she developed an interest in documentary filmmaking. After making a few documentaries and short films, she made her feature film debut with Salaam Bombay! (1988), a film about street children in Mumbai.&nbsp;The critically acclaimed movie earned the Caméra d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. She then went on to direct films such as Mississippi Masala (1991), Monsoon Wedding (2001), and The Namesake (2006). The 2006 film, starring Irrfan Khan and Tabu, revolved around Indian migrants to America. And, did you know that Zohran, who had been helping her mother make decisions since the age of 12, advised her to choose Namesake instead of the Harry Potter film.&nbsp;

Mahmood and Mira raised Zohran in Uganda and South Africa before they moved to New York, which became home to the family of three.

Scripting history, Democrat Zohran Mamdani has won the New York mayoral elections on November 4, defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the first Muslim and first Asian American to lead the mayor’s office of America’s biggest city. Soon after Zohran’s victory was announced, everyone was quick to Google the new NYC mayor, his origins, background, and family, and many were surprised to learn that he is the son of acclaimed Indian filmmaker Mira Nair. Who are Zohran Mamdani’s parents? He was born in Kampala, Uganda, in 1991 to Indian-origin parents, Mahmood Mamdani and Mira Nair. Mahmood is a Ugandan scholar of Indian heritage, a prominent academic and political commentator, and a professor of anthropology at Columbia University. Mira Nair, his mother, is an Oscar-nominated filmmaker. Mahmood and Mira raised Zohran in Uganda and South Africa before they moved to New York, which became home to the family of three. Growing up in a household shaped by multiple diasporas and growing up in the countries, thousands of kilometres away from his parents’ homelands, Zohran always stayed rooted in his Indian and Ugandan heritage as he grew up in American society. Being the son of a renowned filmmaker, Mamdani grew up on film sets, immersed in the world of cinema through his mother. Throughout his campaign, India and Indian cinema have often taken the spotlight as he never forgets to quote famous dialogues from Bollywood classics, a sign of his mother’s cinematic influence. Whether it was a line from the legendary film Deewar or the Bollywood song “Dhoom Machale” playing during his victory speech, his love for film clearly shines through. While Zohran is often seen celebrating typical masala films, his mother's work reflected a different kind of cinema, one that focuses on realism, emotion, social commentary and the complexities of cultural identity. Mira, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and a Cannes winner His mother, Mira Nair, is one of India’s most acclaimed filmmakers, known for telling stories that explore gender, migration, and marginality. She moved from India to build an award-winning international career, often focusing on people living between cultures. Born in India, she went on to study at Harvard University, where she developed an interest in documentary filmmaking. After making a few documentaries and short films, she made her feature film debut with Salaam Bombay! (1988), a film about street children in Mumbai. The critically acclaimed movie earned the Caméra d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. She then went on to direct films such as Mississippi Masala (1991), Monsoon Wedding (2001), and The Namesake (2006). The 2006 film, starring Irrfan Khan and Tabu, revolved around Indian migrants to America. And, did you know that Zohran, who had been helping her mother make decisions since the age of 12, advised her to choose Namesake instead of the Harry Potter film.

Mahmood and Mira raised Zohran in Uganda and South Africa before they moved to New York, which became home to the family of three.

Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of Oscar-nominated director Mira Nair

New York City has elected the Muslim and South Asian origin Zohran Mamdani as the new mayor. Born in the family of a Ugandan scholar, Mahmood Mamdani and Indian filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani has comprehensively defeated Cuomo after months of debate and campaigning. Once, a small-time rapper has transformed the landscape of local legislative politics. Mamdani, famous for his socialist politics and his revolutionary campaign style, has drawn attention from the global media.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After winning New York city mayoral elections, Zohran Mamdani (<a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZohranKMamdani</a>), quotes former Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru in his victory speech. &quot;Standing before you, I think of the words of Jawaharlal Nehru. A moment comes but rarely in history when we step out… <a href="https://t.co/3MmfPefThy">pic.twitter.com/3MmfPefThy</a>&mdash; Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) <a href="https://twitter.com/zoo_bear/status/1985941464581619969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Zohran Mamdani's background and career</h2>Zohran Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda. He is the only child of the postcolonialist author Mahmood Mamdani and the award-winning Filmmaker Mira Nair. His father was a Gujarati Muslim who immigrated to Uganda. Mamdani has both paternal and maternal diasporic links to India. He studied partly in Cape Town and then moved to America. He described himself as ‘privileged’ and said that his reality was not the reality of New York City. "I never had to want for something, and yet I knew that was not in any way the reality for most New Yorkers."He studied at the Bronx High School of Science, where he ran unsuccessfully for Vice President. &nbsp;There, he co-founded the school's chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. He also played soccer for the West Side team. He was fond of Hip Hop music and collaborated with Ugandan rapper HAB under the nickname Young Cardamom. &nbsp;He graduated in 2014 on African Studies. Before running for office, he was a housing counsellor. He said that he helped immigrants in Queens with eviction notices to help them keep their homes, an experience which motivated him to run for the office.&nbsp;In 2015, he joined the New York political scene with the Democratic Socialist Party of America and campaigned for several other leaders like Khader El-Yateem and Tiffany Cabán. In 2020, he won the New York 36th State Assembly district, which encompasses Astoria and Long Island City in Queens. He ran on the issues of housing reform, prison reform and public ownership of utilities. He was re-elected without any opposition in 2022 and 2024. On October 23, 2024, he announced his Mayoral candidacy. He started campaigning with a call for free city buses and a rent freeze in rent-stabilised housing, increasing affordable housing units, establishing government-run grocery stores, and increasing taxes on the rich whose net earnings are more than $1 million.&nbsp;

<h2>Net worth of Zohran Mamdani&nbsp;</h2>According to Forbes, Mamdani has a net valuation of $200,000, which is significantly lower than $10 million of his opponent, Andrew Cuomo. &nbsp;His major property disclosure as a New York City assemblyman was the land in Uganda, which he acquired in 2012. The 4-acre land in Jinja, an area on the banks of Lake Victoria, near the source of the Nile River, is valued between $150,000-$250,000. He lives in a rent-controlled apartment in Astoria worth $2,500. Andrew Cuomo mocked him, calling it a "poor" man's apartment. As a New York City assemblyman, he had a salary of $142,000 per year. Now, as New York Mayor, he will earn a salary of $258,750 a year and will have the option to live rent-free in Gracie Mansion. He doesn't own a car and mostly travels by the Subway. He is married to a Syrian-born American Illustrator, animator and artist Rama Duwaji. Their joint assets have not been disclosed yet.His father, Mahmood Mamdani, works at Columbia University as a senior professor with a yearly salary of roughly $200,000-$300,000, a year. His mother, Mira Nair, is a renowned filmmaker and made films like Salaam Bombay!, Mississippi Masala, and Monsoon Wedding. She owns a $2 million house in New York City. &nbsp;Conservative mouthpiece, New York Post, and conservative commentator Laura Loomer and Meghan McCain claim that Mamdani's parents have a valuation of $2million-$10 million, and he is too privileged to talk about Socialism.&nbsp;

Explore Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and political rise as New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Learn about his family and career.

New York City has elected the Muslim and South Asian origin Zohran Mamdani as the new mayor. Born in the family of a Ugandan scholar, Mahmood Mamdani and Indian filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani has comprehensively defeated Cuomo after months of debate and campaigning. Once, a small-time rapper has transformed the landscape of local legislative politics. Mamdani, famous for his socialist politics and his revolutionary campaign style, has drawn attention from the global media.

Explore Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and political rise as New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Learn about his family and career.

Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and rise as New York City’s Mayor

New Yor Citys' new mayor Zohran Mamdani has often spoken out against Islamophobia, racism and injustice. He has addressed the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Democratic Party. He has had words for India, its ruling party BJP and PM Narendra Modi. Here is a compilation

New York City's new mayor Zohran Mamdani has often spoken out against Islamophobia, racism and injustice. He has addressed the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Democratic Party. He has had words for India, its ruling party BJP and PM Narendra Modi. Here is a compilation

Controversial remarks of Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayor: Find out what he said about India, Narendra Modi, BJP, RSS

Democrats have swept the first major poll of Trump's second term, with major victories in New York, New Jersey and the swing state of Virginia. The polls were seen as a litmus test ahead of the 2026 midterms and amid the government shutdown. As voters delivered an early warning, Trump quickly distanced himself from the GOP losses in a Truth Social post, citing an unknown pollster. Trump said that his absence from the ballot and the government shutdown were the two key reasons for the Republican defeat. &nbsp;White House was also quick to remind that Trump is still the President of the United States.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/UMskjYPHlf">pic.twitter.com/UMskjYPHlf</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1985899570648252631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Early warning for Trump</h2>Even though Trump tried to distance himself from the poor performance of the Republicans in the ballot, he did endorse every candidate who lost. Altogether, Trump endorsed 53 candidates. “Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice,” Trump posted, urging people to keep Mamdani out. Similarly, Trump urged voters to vote for Republicans but did not clearly endorse the Virginia Republican candidate, Winsome Earle-Sears. &nbsp;He did endorse Jack Ciattarelli, who was the Republican candidate for New Jersey. &nbsp;<h2>Democrats win big</h2>

Zohran Mamdani became the first Muslim and South Asian Mayor of New York City, Abigail Spanberger became the first female governor of Virginia, and Mikie Sherrill won New Jersey to become New Jersey's first Democrat Governor. Eventhough New York has been deep blue in every Presidential election since 1988, Mamdani was up against one of his own, the former Democrat party governor Andrew Cuomo. Similarly, New Jersey had been a Democratic stronghold since the 1992 Presidential election. Virginia is a swing state; it had been voting red until the 2008 presidential election, but since then, it has shifted to blue. However, the state and other legislative elections can be competitive. California is also voting on redistricting in response to Trump's Proposition 50 in Texas. Since the poll, the Democrats are hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes in the midterms. It shows some semblance of connection between the &nbsp;Democrats and the non-traditional voter base since last year's election, when Trump swept across all the swing states and made inroads into Democratic territory. Specifically, the victory of the Democratic Socialist, Muslim candidate Zohran Mamdani shows that the GOP is losing the identity politics, and Mamdani stood for everything that Trump and the GOP oppose. Rather, Mamdani ran on the cross-community issues and economic troubles of the commoners, which resonated more with New Yorkers.

Democrats win big in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia, dealing a major blow to Trump’s GOP amid the government shutdown and 2026 midterm buildup.

Democrats have swept the first major poll of Trump's second term, with major victories in New York, New Jersey and the swing state of Virginia. The polls were seen as a litmus test ahead of the 2026 midterms and amid the government shutdown. As voters delivered an early warning, Trump quickly distanced himself from the GOP losses in a Truth Social post, citing an unknown pollster. Trump said that his absence from the ballot and the government shutdown were the two key reasons for the Republican defeat. White House was also quick to remind that Trump is still the President of the United States.

Democrats win big in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia, dealing a major blow to Trump’s GOP amid the government shutdown and 2026 midterm buildup.

Democrats win big, Trump blames government shutdown and his absence from ballots

Zohran Mamdani has won the New York mayoral elections and will become first Indian-American of Muslim faith to be at the post. As he addressed New Yorkers after his historical win, he did not shy away from his Indian roots. From first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Bollywood, Mamdani's speech encapsulated what his campaign showed for so long - he is in New York for immigrants and he is not the one to run away from his identity. Amid loud cheers as he finished his speech, Bollywood song ‘Dhoom Macchale’ played in background!

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Zohran Mamdani&#39;s victory speech just ended with the closing song &quot;Dhoom Machale&quot; 😱 <a href="https://t.co/DJfFLFXcOz">pic.twitter.com/DJfFLFXcOz</a>&mdash; Saib Bilaval (@SaibBilaval) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaibBilaval/status/1985932881886396585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Thanking the voters for the mandate, Mamdani said that New York will be the light in political darkness of the country. He directly addressed US President Donald Trump, took a swipe at now defeated Andrew Cuomo and then, came straight to the main point - his vision to make New York city “affordable and accessible.” It hit a different chord, not only for his supporters but for Democrats in general, whose speeches have for long been focussed on Trump and his highhandedness.&nbsp;Quoting Nehru, Mamdani said, “Standing before you, I’m reminded of Jawaharlal Nehru’s words. A moment comes but rarely in history when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation long suppressed finds utterance. Tonight, New York has done just that. This new era demands clarity, courage, and vision — not excuses. It will be defined by bold leadership and the most ambitious plan yet to confront our city’s cost-of-living crisis.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | USA: Addressing his supporters after winning New York city mayoral elections, Indian-origin democratic socialist lawmaker, Zohran Mamdani (<a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZohranKMamdani</a>), quotes former Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru in his victory speech. He says, “Standing before you, I’m… <a href="https://t.co/gydR3zPsql">pic.twitter.com/gydR3zPsql</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1985932029582799226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American Muslim to win New York’s mayoral race, celebrated his roots quoting Nehru and ending with “Dhoom Machale.” Promising to make NYC “affordable and accessible,” he called the win a new era of bold leadership and a light in America’s political darkness.

Zohran Mamdani has won the New York mayoral elections and will become first Indian-American of Muslim faith to be at the post. As he addressed New Yorkers after his historical win, he did not shy away from his Indian roots. From first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Bollywood, Mamdani's speech encapsulated what his campaign showed for so long - he is in New York for immigrants and he is not the one to run away from his identity. Amid loud cheers as he finished his speech, Bollywood song ‘Dhoom Macchale’ played in background!

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American Muslim to win New York’s mayoral race, celebrated his roots quoting Nehru and ending with “Dhoom Machale.” Promising to make NYC “affordable and accessible,” he called the win a new era of bold leadership and a light in America’s political darkness.

Dhoom macchale! Zohran Mamdani brings Bollywood to NY, mentions Nehru in first speech after win - WATCH

New York City's mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani created history as he became first Indian-American to win the race. However, he has been a critic of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and just ahead of the elections, Mamdani explained the reason for his opposition. Mamdani defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate - who was backed by US President Donald Trump - and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral polls. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his first speech, Mamdani called the victory a 'mandate for change' and thanked his parents - mother Mira Nair and father Professor Mahmood Mamdani - for their support. He also thanked his wife Rama and said, “no one I would rather have by my side in this moment and in every moment.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-city-s-mayoral-election-defeats-trump-backed-andrew-cuomo-curtis-sliwa-1762310323558">Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo</a><h2>Mamdani criticised PM Modi</h2>During his outreach to Hindu American voters on Diwali, Mamdani claimed that Modi and the BJP “has room for certain kinds of Indians.” "So, I have been critical of Mr. Modi because of the vision that I grew up with was of an India that was pluralistic, an India where everyone belonged, no matter their religion. And my critique has been of Mr. Modi and the BJP political party for their vision of an India that only has room for certain kinds of Indians, and it's part of a belief that pluralism is something to be celebrated, something to be strived for," he said. "And I also know that I'm running to be the mayor of New York City - eight and a half million people - many of whom may feel differently than me about Mr. Modi, and that's their right, and I will look to represent them all the same, because my responsibility to them as New Yorkers is to ensure that they are safe, to ensure they can afford this city," he added. '&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-have-toppled-political-dynasty-mamdani-s-first-reaction-after-big-win-in-ny-mayoral-polls-1762316914172"> ‘We have toppled political dynasty’: Mamdani’s first reaction after BIG win in NY mayoral polls</a>&nbsp;In June 2025 Mamdani had called the Indian PM a ‘war criminal'. “Narendra Modi helped to orchestrate what was a mass slaughter of Muslims in Gujarat… to the extent that we don’t even believe there are Gujarati Muslims any more, he had said. In his speeches, Mamdani has called out Hindu majoritarian policies in India, linking them to Modi.&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s mayor-elect, made history as the first Indian-American to win the post. A vocal critic of PM Modi, he’s accused Modi and the BJP of promoting exclusionary politics and earlier called Modi a “war criminal” over the 2002 Gujarat riots.

New York City's mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani created history as he became first Indian-American to win the race. However, he has been a critic of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and just ahead of the elections, Mamdani explained the reason for his opposition. Mamdani defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate - who was backed by US President Donald Trump - and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral polls. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. In his first speech, Mamdani called the victory a 'mandate for change' and thanked his parents - mother Mira Nair and father Professor Mahmood Mamdani - for their support. He also thanked his wife Rama and said, “no one I would rather have by my side in this moment and in every moment.” Read More | Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo Mamdani criticised PM Modi During his outreach to Hindu American voters on Diwali, Mamdani claimed that Modi and the BJP “has room for certain kinds of Indians.” "So, I have been critical of Mr. Modi because of the vision that I grew up with was of an India that was pluralistic, an India where everyone belonged, no matter their religion. And my critique has been of Mr. Modi and the BJP political party for their vision of an India that only has room for certain kinds of Indians, and it's part of a belief that pluralism is something to be celebrated, something to be strived for," he said. "And I also know that I'm running to be the mayor of New York City - eight and a half million people - many of whom may feel differently than me about Mr. Modi, and that's their right, and I will look to represent them all the same, because my responsibility to them as New Yorkers is to ensure that they are safe, to ensure they can afford this city," he added. ' Read More | ‘We have toppled political dynasty’: Mamdani’s first reaction after BIG win in NY mayoral polls In June 2025 Mamdani had called the Indian PM a ‘war criminal'. “Narendra Modi helped to orchestrate what was a mass slaughter of Muslims in Gujarat… to the extent that we don’t even believe there are Gujarati Muslims any more, he had said. In his speeches, Mamdani has called out Hindu majoritarian policies in India, linking them to Modi.

Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s mayor-elect, made history as the first Indian-American to win the post. A vocal critic of PM Modi, he’s accused Modi and the BJP of promoting exclusionary politics and earlier called Modi a “war criminal” over the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why

Democrat Zohran Mamdani secured a landmark victory in the New York City Mayoral election on Tuesday (Nov 4), becoming the city's first Indian-American to win the race. Speaking after his win, Mamdani declared, “We have toppled a political dynasty.” He added that today marks the dawn of a better day for humanity after he defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani has also become the first Muslim leader and the youngest mayor in the city. He will take the office on January 1, 2026.&nbsp;“The sun may have set over our city this evening, but as Eugene Debs once said, ‘I can see the dawn of a better day for humanity,’” he said. “And yet, over the last 12 months, you have dared to reach for something greater. Tonight, against all odds, we have grasped it.”&nbsp;“The future is in our hands,” he said, as the crowd cheered.&nbsp;Mamdani also directly addressed US President Donald Trump, his foe, in his speech. “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up,” he said. “To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us.”<h2>‘We have toppled a political dynasty’</h2>&nbsp;"My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty," Mamdani declared in his victory speech. “I wish Andrew Cuomo only the best in private life. But let tonight be the final time that I utter his name.”&nbsp;He further thanked his wife, parents, and volunteers for their support in his campaign that led to his landmark victory.&nbsp;“New York City, breathe this moment in,” he said. “We have held our breath for longer than we know. We have held it in anticipation of defeat. Held it because the air has been knocked out of our lungs too many times to count. Held it because we cannot afford to exhale, thanks to all of those who sacrifice so much.”&nbsp;“We are breathing in the air of a city that has been reborn,” he added.&nbsp;“Today we have spoken in a clear voice: hope is alive,” Mamdani told his supporters. “This will be an age where New Yorkers will expect of their leaders a bold vision.”&nbsp;

Democrat Zohran Mamdani secured a landmark victory in the New York City Mayoral election on Tuesday (Nov 4), becoming the city's first Indian-American to win the race.

Democrat Zohran Mamdani secured a landmark victory in the New York City Mayoral election on Tuesday (Nov 4), becoming the city's first Indian-American to win the race. Speaking after his win, Mamdani declared, “We have toppled a political dynasty.” He added that today marks the dawn of a better day for humanity after he defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani has also become the first Muslim leader and the youngest mayor in the city. He will take the office on January 1, 2026. “The sun may have set over our city this evening, but as Eugene Debs once said, ‘I can see the dawn of a better day for humanity,’” he said. “And yet, over the last 12 months, you have dared to reach for something greater. Tonight, against all odds, we have grasped it.” “The future is in our hands,” he said, as the crowd cheered. Mamdani also directly addressed US President Donald Trump, his foe, in his speech. “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up,” he said. “To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us.” ‘We have toppled a political dynasty’ "My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty," Mamdani declared in his victory speech. “I wish Andrew Cuomo only the best in private life. But let tonight be the final time that I utter his name.” He further thanked his wife, parents, and volunteers for their support in his campaign that led to his landmark victory. “New York City, breathe this moment in,” he said. “We have held our breath for longer than we know. We have held it in anticipation of defeat. Held it because the air has been knocked out of our lungs too many times to count. Held it because we cannot afford to exhale, thanks to all of those who sacrifice so much.” “We are breathing in the air of a city that has been reborn,” he added. “Today we have spoken in a clear voice: hope is alive,” Mamdani told his supporters. “This will be an age where New Yorkers will expect of their leaders a bold vision.”

Democrat Zohran Mamdani secured a landmark victory in the New York City Mayoral election on Tuesday (Nov 4), becoming the city's first Indian-American to win the race.

‘We have toppled political dynasty’: Mamdani’s first reaction after BIG win in NY mayoral polls

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayoral elections to become the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary earlier this year, was facing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century.&nbsp;Mamdani's victory comes as a turning point in the US politics as he is seen as the future of Democratic Party. Mamdani had stitched a wonderful campaign for the poll highlighting his South Asian heritage. He spoke in Hindi and Bengali to woo the voters from South Asian heritage. He spoke about haleem and biryani and he exhibited his love for Bollywood. While he didn't shy away from embracing his Muslim identity during the campaign, he also courted several controversies. Mamdani who identifies as Democratic socialist, currently represents Astoria and Long Island City in the New York State Assembly. He has supported policies such as higher taxes on wealthier white neighbourhoods, defunding the police, limiting police response to domestic violence, cutting gifted education programs, and closing Rikers Island prison.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Zohran Mamdani?</h2>Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda, but was brought up with his family in New York City, USA, at the age of 7. His mother, Mira Nair, is a celebrated film director and his father Professor Mahmood Mamdani, teaches at Columbia. Both of them are Harvard alumni. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College and became an American citizen in 2018. He attended the Bronx High School of Science and later earned a degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the campus chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. Mamdani and his wife, 27-year-old Brooklyn-based Syrian artist Rama Duwaji, met on the dating app Hinge.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zohran-mamdani-defeats-former-governer-andrew-cuomo-1762314775222/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/zohran-mamdani-defeats-former-governer-andrew-cuomo-1762314775222/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Mamdani and Trump</h2>Just a day ago, US President Donald Trump had warned of cutting New York federal funding if voters choose Mamdani. He had also called him anti-jew. Mamdani was constantly the target of Trump - who called him ‘100% communist lunatic.’ “He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart,” Trump has said several times about the self-proclaimed Democratic socialist. In a recent interview with CBS, he said that he is “better looking” than Mamdani.&nbsp;Mamdani received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Former President Barack Obama also backed him and said that he would become his “sounding board” but didn't endorse him. However, he did campaign alongside New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger - both of who won the race.&nbsp;As he won, Mamdani posted a video showing a New York subway train opening at City Hall, with the text "Zohran For New York City" emerging on the wall. City Hall is the place where the mayor's office is located. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa conceded the mayoral race, vowing to become Mamdani's “worst enemies.”&nbsp;

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayor poll by defeating former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election.

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayoral elections to become the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary earlier this year, was facing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. Mamdani's victory comes as a turning point in the US politics as he is seen as the future of Democratic Party. Mamdani had stitched a wonderful campaign for the poll highlighting his South Asian heritage. He spoke in Hindi and Bengali to woo the voters from South Asian heritage. He spoke about haleem and biryani and he exhibited his love for Bollywood. While he didn't shy away from embracing his Muslim identity during the campaign, he also courted several controversies. Mamdani who identifies as Democratic socialist, currently represents Astoria and Long Island City in the New York State Assembly. He has supported policies such as higher taxes on wealthier white neighbourhoods, defunding the police, limiting police response to domestic violence, cutting gifted education programs, and closing Rikers Island prison. Who is Zohran Mamdani? Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda, but was brought up with his family in New York City, USA, at the age of 7. His mother, Mira Nair, is a celebrated film director and his father Professor Mahmood Mamdani, teaches at Columbia. Both of them are Harvard alumni. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College and became an American citizen in 2018. He attended the Bronx High School of Science and later earned a degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the campus chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. Mamdani and his wife, 27-year-old Brooklyn-based Syrian artist Rama Duwaji, met on the dating app Hinge. https://www.wionews.com/videos/zohran-mamdani-defeats-former-governer-andrew-cuomo-1762314775222/embed Mamdani and Trump Just a day ago, US President Donald Trump had warned of cutting New York federal funding if voters choose Mamdani. He had also called him anti-jew. Mamdani was constantly the target of Trump - who called him ‘100% communist lunatic.’ “He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart,” Trump has said several times about the self-proclaimed Democratic socialist. In a recent interview with CBS, he said that he is “better looking” than Mamdani. Mamdani received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Former President Barack Obama also backed him and said that he would become his “sounding board” but didn't endorse him. However, he did campaign alongside New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger - both of who won the race. As he won, Mamdani posted a video showing a New York subway train opening at City Hall, with the text "Zohran For New York City" emerging on the wall. City Hall is the place where the mayor's office is located. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa conceded the mayoral race, vowing to become Mamdani's “worst enemies.”

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayor poll by defeating former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election.

Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo

Linda Sarsour, a Palestinian-American activist, has accused New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani of receiving his election funds from the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR). It is the same organisation that is under congressional scrutiny for alleged links to the Palestinian militant group Hamas. As per The New York Post, Sarsour claimed she and the Hamas-linked nonprofit helped fuel Mamdani's rise.She named the CAIR-funded Unity and Justice Fund PAC. She described the organisations as "the largest institutional donor to the pro-Zohran super PAC in New York", the NYP reported.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-net-worth-trump-is-already-billions-richer-even-before-one-year-into-second-term-here-is-how-he-is-filling-his-pockets-1762251025229">Trump is growing richer by day, less than a year into second term. Here is how</a>Meanwhile, the public records revealed that the Unity and Justice PAC gave $120,000. The allegation casts doubts on Mamdani for accepting funds from an outfit that is under investigation.Meanwhile, Tesla's CEO and former ally of Donald Trump, Elon Musk, alleged on Tuesday (Nov 4) that the New York City ballot form is a scam. Sharing an image of a ballot paper of his X account, Musk claimed that no ID card is required to cast a ballot in New York. He also claimed that other mayoral candidates appeared twice on the paper, and Andrew Cuomo's name was last in the bottom right of the paper.Meanwhile, his claims were busted by a journalist in the comments who said that the NYC does not have any voter ID laws. The journo, who went by the name Isaac Saul, further said that "In New York, the state, multiple parties can endorse the same candidate, so some can appear multiple times. Sliwa, the Republican, is also listed twice!"Responding to Musk's allegation of Cuomo's name at the bottom, the journo said, "Cuomo lost the primary, and ran as an indy, and ballots list major party candidates first."

Meanwhile, the public records revealed that the Unity and Justice PAC gave $120,000. The allegation casts doubts on Mamdani for accepting funds from an outfit that is under investigation.

Linda Sarsour, a Palestinian-American activist, has accused New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani of receiving his election funds from the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR). It is the same organisation that is under congressional scrutiny for alleged links to the Palestinian militant group Hamas. As per The New York Post, Sarsour claimed she and the Hamas-linked nonprofit helped fuel Mamdani's rise. She named the CAIR-funded Unity and Justice Fund PAC. She described the organisations as "the largest institutional donor to the pro-Zohran super PAC in New York", the NYP reported. Also read: Trump is growing richer by day, less than a year into second term. Here is how Meanwhile, the public records revealed that the Unity and Justice PAC gave $120,000. The allegation casts doubts on Mamdani for accepting funds from an outfit that is under investigation. Meanwhile, Tesla's CEO and former ally of Donald Trump, Elon Musk, alleged on Tuesday (Nov 4) that the New York City ballot form is a scam. Sharing an image of a ballot paper of his X account, Musk claimed that no ID card is required to cast a ballot in New York. He also claimed that other mayoral candidates appeared twice on the paper, and Andrew Cuomo's name was last in the bottom right of the paper. Meanwhile, his claims were busted by a journalist in the comments who said that the NYC does not have any voter ID laws. The journo, who went by the name Isaac Saul, further said that "In New York, the state, multiple parties can endorse the same candidate, so some can appear multiple times. Sliwa, the Republican, is also listed twice!" Responding to Musk's allegation of Cuomo's name at the bottom, the journo said, "Cuomo lost the primary, and ran as an indy, and ballots list major party candidates first."

Meanwhile, the public records revealed that the Unity and Justice PAC gave $120,000. The allegation casts doubts on Mamdani for accepting funds from an outfit that is under investigation.

Hamas indirectly funded Zohran Mamdani for New York election? Here’s what Linda Sarsour claims

Donald Trump waded deeper into New York City politics on Monday (Nov 3), throwing his support behind New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in a move that stunned both parties. The endorsement came with a warning — if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins Tuesday’s mayoral race, Trump said he might withhold federal funds from his native city. "Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "You must vote for him, and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it, Mamdani is not!"Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-a-fascist-s-worst-nightmare-zohran-mamdani-vows-to-take-us-president-to-court-if-elected-new-york-mayor-1761558969172">Zohran Mamdani vows to take Trump to court if elected New York mayor</a><h2>Mamdani vs Trump</h2>The POTUS's backing of Cuomo, a lifelong Democrat running as an independent, marks an unusual political twist. It puts Trump at odds not only with Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, but also with the Republican nominee, Curtis Sliwa, who has struggled to gain traction in the heavily Democratic city. Trump argued that a vote for Sliwa would only split the anti-Mamdani vote and hand victory to what he called the "communist candidate.""If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home, because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has ZERO chance of success, or even survival!," said the US President. He claimed that “It can only get worse with a Communist at the helm, and I don’t want to send, as President, good money after bad.”

<h2>Mamdani slams Trump's endorsement of Cuomo</h2>Mamdani brushed off Trump’s intervention, calling it proof that Cuomo represents the old political class. Speaking at an event, the New York mayoral candidate said that "The MAGA movement's embrace of Andrew Cuomo is reflective of Donald Trump's understanding that this would be the best mayor for him.""They (Trump and Cuomo) share the same donors, they share the same small vision, they share the same sense of impunity," he noted.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-loses-it-over-seth-meyers-skit-calls-late-night-host-a-truly-deranged-lunatic-watch-video-here-1762071812196">'Illegal' to make fun of Trump? POTUS loses it over Seth Meyers skit, calls late-night host ‘a truly deranged lunatic’. Watch video here!</a><h2>What money is Trump talking about?</h2>The federal government provides more than $7 billion to New York City annually — money that supports housing, healthcare, and public transit. Trump suggested he would reduce that funding “to the bare minimum required by law” if Mamdani wins.It’s not the first time Trump has used federal dollars as leverage. Throughout his second term, he’s clashed with state and local governments over climate policies, transgender protections, and pro-Palestinian demonstrations.<h2> &nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;

Donald Trump has endorsed Andrew Cuomo for New York City mayor, warning he’d cut federal funds if Zohran Mamdani wins. Calling Mamdani a “communist candidate,” Trump said he’d limit NYC’s $7 billion in federal aid. Mamdani hit back, calling Cuomo “Trump’s ideal mayor.”

Donald Trump waded deeper into New York City politics on Monday (Nov 3), throwing his support behind New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in a move that stunned both parties. The endorsement came with a warning — if Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani wins Tuesday’s mayoral race, Trump said he might withhold federal funds from his native city. "Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "You must vote for him, and hope he does a fantastic job. He is capable of it, Mamdani is not!" Also read | Zohran Mamdani vows to take Trump to court if elected New York mayor Mamdani vs Trump The POTUS's backing of Cuomo, a lifelong Democrat running as an independent, marks an unusual political twist. It puts Trump at odds not only with Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, but also with the Republican nominee, Curtis Sliwa, who has struggled to gain traction in the heavily Democratic city. Trump argued that a vote for Sliwa would only split the anti-Mamdani vote and hand victory to what he called the "communist candidate." "If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home, because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has ZERO chance of success, or even survival!," said the US President. He claimed that “It can only get worse with a Communist at the helm, and I don’t want to send, as President, good money after bad.”

Donald Trump has endorsed Andrew Cuomo for New York City mayor, warning he’d cut federal funds if Zohran Mamdani wins. Calling Mamdani a “communist candidate,” Trump said he’d limit NYC’s $7 billion in federal aid. Mamdani hit back, calling Cuomo “Trump’s ideal mayor.”

Trump’s 'best NYC mayor'? POTUS endorses Cuomo, says will stop federal funding if 'Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani' wins

Ahead of the final stage of the New York Mayoral elections, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has put his weight behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent and slammed Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani. Urging people to vote for Cuomo, he called the Democratic candidate as "Mumdani". His appeal for vote for Cuomo comes as US President Donald Trump also urged people to vote for him. Trump had called Cuomo the 'lesser evil" in an interview earlier. The US president also slammed “Communist” Mamdani, who has “no experience,” and said that Cuomo is the capable one.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20251104/image-1762228605787.png"></figure>&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-much-better-looking-person-is-zohran-mamdani-left-wing-version-of-trump-here-s-what-us-president-said-1762132235241"> 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Musk called Mamdani the "future" of the Democratic Party" in the US. Taking to X, Musk shared a clip of New York Governor Kathy Hochul endorsing Mamdani's candidacy and wrote, "Zohran is the future of the Democratic Party". Musk, who is known for his humour seemed to be sarcastic, as he shared another post stating that Mamdani has supported policies such as higher taxes on wealthier white neighborhoods, defunding the police, limiting police response to domestic violence, cutting gifted education programs, and closing Rikers Island prison. He has also called him a “charismatic swindler” during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-defends-muslim-identity-says-his-aunt-felt-unsafe-in-hijab-after-9-11-receives-response-from-jd-vance-1761453215884">Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity, says his aunt felt unsafe in hijab after 9/11'; receives response from JD Vance</a>&nbsp;In-person voting began last Saturday and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. As it enters its final lap, Mamdani is emerging as the front-runner. Mamdani is pitted against Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent. Trump, on Nov 3, urged everyone to vote for Cuomo and even warned of withholding federal funding to New York if Mamdani is elected. Taking to Truth Social, Trump stated, "If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home, because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has ZERO chance of success, or even survival!" &nbsp;&nbsp;Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-endorses-mamdani-ahead-of-high-octane-new-york-mayoral-polls-here-s-what-he-said-in-30-minutes-phone-call-1762146854733">Obama endorses Zohran Mamdani ahead of high-octane New York mayoral polls? Here's what he said in 30-minutes phone call</a>&nbsp;

Elon Musk backed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the New York mayoral race, mocking Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani as “Mumdani.” Trump also endorsed Cuomo, calling Mamdani a “Communist.” 

Ahead of the final stage of the New York Mayoral elections, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has put his weight behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent and slammed Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani. Urging people to vote for Cuomo, he called the Democratic candidate as "Mumdani". His appeal for vote for Cuomo comes as US President Donald Trump also urged people to vote for him. Trump had called Cuomo the 'lesser evil" in an interview earlier. The US president also slammed “Communist” Mamdani, who has “no experience,” and said that Cuomo is the capable one. Read More | 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said Earlier, Musk called Mamdani the "future" of the Democratic Party" in the US. Taking to X, Musk shared a clip of New York Governor Kathy Hochul endorsing Mamdani's candidacy and wrote, "Zohran is the future of the Democratic Party". Musk, who is known for his humour seemed to be sarcastic, as he shared another post stating that Mamdani has supported policies such as higher taxes on wealthier white neighborhoods, defunding the police, limiting police response to domestic violence, cutting gifted education programs, and closing Rikers Island prison. He has also called him a “charismatic swindler” during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. Read More | Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity, says his aunt felt unsafe in hijab after 9/11'; receives response from JD Vance In-person voting began last Saturday and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. As it enters its final lap, Mamdani is emerging as the front-runner. Mamdani is pitted against Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent. Trump, on Nov 3, urged everyone to vote for Cuomo and even warned of withholding federal funding to New York if Mamdani is elected. Taking to Truth Social, Trump stated, "If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home, because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has ZERO chance of success, or even survival!" Read More | Obama endorses Zohran Mamdani ahead of high-octane New York mayoral polls? Here's what he said in 30-minutes phone call

Elon Musk backed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the New York mayoral race, mocking Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani as “Mumdani.” Trump also endorsed Cuomo, calling Mamdani a “Communist.”&nbsp;

'Mumdumi or whatever his name is': Musk backs Cuomo against 'communist' Zohran ahead of final lap of NY mayoral polls

Former US President Barack Obama has praised New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's campaign and offered to be a “sounding board” if the 34-year-old frontrunner wins the election. In a statement, Mamdani spokesperson Dora Pekec said that Mamdani appreciated Obama’s words. This comes even as Obama has not yet endorsed Mamdani. Mamdani's policies range from hiking taxes on New York City's wealthiest, raising the corporation tax, freezing stabilised apartment rental rates, and increasing publicly subsidised housing. Mamdani is up against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is contesting as an Independent and Republican nominee, Curtis Sliwa, in the polls that will take place on November 4.&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-much-better-looking-person-is-zohran-mamdani-left-wing-version-of-trump-here-s-what-us-president-said-1762132235241"> 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said</a>&nbsp;"Your campaign has been impressive to watch," Obama reportedly said in the roughly 30-minute call with Mamdani. Pekec was quoted by Reuters as saying, “Zohran Mamdani appreciated President Obama’s words of support and their conversation on the importance of bringing a new kind of politics to our city,” Reuters reported. The call was first reported by the New York Times and was later confirmed by Mamdani’s spokesperson. Though Obama campaigned alongside New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger, he has not yet made public appearances with Mamdani in his rallies. Mamdani has received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-defends-muslim-identity-says-his-aunt-felt-unsafe-in-hijab-after-9-11-receives-response-from-jd-vance-1761453215884">Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity, says his aunt felt unsafe in hijab after 9/11'; receives response from JD Vance</a> &nbsp;In-person voting in NY mayoral polls begun last week and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent.Meanwhile, ahead of the voting, in an emotional speech Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt, “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” He was targeted for his remarks by many in the Republican Party, including Vice President JD Vance.

Barack Obama praised NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign and offered guidance if he wins, though he hasn’t endorsed him. Mamdani, backed by top Democrats, faces Cuomo and Sliwa. He defended his Muslim identity amid attacks, sharing his family’s post-9/11 struggles.

Former US President Barack Obama has praised New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's campaign and offered to be a “sounding board” if the 34-year-old frontrunner wins the election. In a statement, Mamdani spokesperson Dora Pekec said that Mamdani appreciated Obama’s words. This comes even as Obama has not yet endorsed Mamdani. Mamdani's policies range from hiking taxes on New York City's wealthiest, raising the corporation tax, freezing stabilised apartment rental rates, and increasing publicly subsidised housing. Mamdani is up against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is contesting as an Independent and Republican nominee, Curtis Sliwa, in the polls that will take place on November 4. Read More | 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said "Your campaign has been impressive to watch," Obama reportedly said in the roughly 30-minute call with Mamdani. Pekec was quoted by Reuters as saying, “Zohran Mamdani appreciated President Obama’s words of support and their conversation on the importance of bringing a new kind of politics to our city,” Reuters reported. The call was first reported by the New York Times and was later confirmed by Mamdani’s spokesperson. Though Obama campaigned alongside New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill and Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger, he has not yet made public appearances with Mamdani in his rallies. Mamdani has received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Read More | Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity, says his aunt felt unsafe in hijab after 9/11'; receives response from JD Vance In-person voting in NY mayoral polls begun last week and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent. Meanwhile, ahead of the voting, in an emotional speech Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt, “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” He was targeted for his remarks by many in the Republican Party, including Vice President JD Vance.

Barack Obama praised NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign and offered guidance if he wins, though he hasn’t endorsed him. Mamdani, backed by top Democrats, faces Cuomo and Sliwa. He defended his Muslim identity amid attacks, sharing his family’s post-9/11 struggles.

Obama endorses Zohran Mamdani ahead of high-octane New York mayoral polls? Here's what he said in 30-minutes phone call

US President Donald Trump has once again slammed Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani &nbsp;and called him worst than socialist. His remarks come as countdown began for the New York City mayoral election. During the campaign for the polls, Trump had continuously attacked Mamdani and called him ‘Communist’ and had even hinted at one point about stripping his citizenship.&nbsp;&nbsp;During an interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes, Trump reiterated that Mamdani was a “Communist, not a socialist". “He’s far worse than a socialist,” Trump added. In a teaser clip of his interview on 60 Minutes on Sunday night, Trump was asked by the interviewer about Mamdani’s NYC mayoral candidature and his identity which he self-declared as a socialist. The interviewer had asked, “Some people have compared him to a left-wing version of you: charismatic, breaking the old rules.” Responding to the question, Trump said, “Well, I think I’m a much better looking person.” Earlier, Trump had said that he looks “TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart.”&nbsp;Mamdani has received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;In-person voting in NY mayoral polls begun last week and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent.&nbsp;Meanwhile, ahead of the voting, in an emotional speech Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” He was targeted for his remarks by many in Republican Party including Vice President JD Vance.

Donald Trump has again attacked Democratic NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, calling him “a Communist, worse than a socialist.” As voting began, Mamdani, backed by top Democrats, condemned “racist” attacks and defended his Muslim identity in an emotional Bronx speech.

US President Donald Trump has once again slammed Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani and called him worst than socialist. His remarks come as countdown began for the New York City mayoral election. During the campaign for the polls, Trump had continuously attacked Mamdani and called him ‘Communist’ and had even hinted at one point about stripping his citizenship. During an interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes, Trump reiterated that Mamdani was a “Communist, not a socialist". “He’s far worse than a socialist,” Trump added. In a teaser clip of his interview on 60 Minutes on Sunday night, Trump was asked by the interviewer about Mamdani’s NYC mayoral candidature and his identity which he self-declared as a socialist. The interviewer had asked, “Some people have compared him to a left-wing version of you: charismatic, breaking the old rules.” Responding to the question, Trump said, “Well, I think I’m a much better looking person.” Earlier, Trump had said that he looks “TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart.” Mamdani has received the backing from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, US Senator Bernie Sanders, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Representative Jerrold Nadler, who represents Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and former Vice President Kamala Harris. In-person voting in NY mayoral polls begun last week and is continuing for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent. Meanwhile, ahead of the voting, in an emotional speech Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” He was targeted for his remarks by many in Republican Party including Vice President JD Vance.

Donald Trump has again attacked Democratic NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, calling him “a Communist, worse than a socialist.” As voting began, Mamdani, backed by top Democrats, condemned “racist” attacks and defended his Muslim identity in an emotional Bronx speech.

'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said

An old video has circulated showing New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani chanting against “Israeli settler violence" at a rally in Manhattan, months before the October 7 attack in 2023. The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.The clip showed Mamdani chanting, “That’s what we’re calling for."“We are calling for it because we know that the days of inconsistency, the days of drawing the lines in Palestine, those days are over," he added.“What we are calling for is the end of our complicity as New Yorkers," he said.The rally was held in support of a bill Zohran Mamdani introduced in the New York State Assembly. It was centred on ending tax-exempt status for organisations that raise money for Israeli military or settlement activity.During his speech in the rally, Mamdani criticised what he described as a double standard in American politics when it comes to Palestinian rights.“When I grew up in this city, I grew up hearing a term- ‘progressive except Palestine,’" he said.“I saw the politicians that I admired speak of universal rights and then draw the line right when it came to Palestinians," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Three months before the October 7 Massacre, Zohran Mamdani was already “Globalizing the Intifada.” No western suit and tie. No polished smile. Just pure hate. <a href="https://t.co/H64pK1v0tK">pic.twitter.com/H64pK1v0tK</a>&mdash; The Persian Jewess (@persianjewess) <a href="https://twitter.com/persianjewess/status/1983769107544862926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel."Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian." &nbsp;

The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.

An old video has circulated showing New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani chanting against “Israeli settler violence" at a rally in Manhattan, months before the October 7 attack in 2023. The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown. The clip showed Mamdani chanting, “That’s what we’re calling for." “We are calling for it because we know that the days of inconsistency, the days of drawing the lines in Palestine, those days are over," he added. “What we are calling for is the end of our complicity as New Yorkers," he said. The rally was held in support of a bill Zohran Mamdani introduced in the New York State Assembly. It was centred on ending tax-exempt status for organisations that raise money for Israeli military or settlement activity. During his speech in the rally, Mamdani criticised what he described as a double standard in American politics when it comes to Palestinian rights. “When I grew up in this city, I grew up hearing a term- ‘progressive except Palestine,’" he said. “I saw the politicians that I admired speak of universal rights and then draw the line right when it came to Palestinians," he added.

The footage was widely shared online and showed the Democratic Socialist state assemblyman from Queens shouting into a megaphone at an anti-Israel demonstration in Midtown.

WATCH: Zohran Mamdani called to end ‘Israeli violence’ against Palestine months before Oct 7 attack

The Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel."Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian."'Firang' is a term used in Hindu and Urdu for foreigners or Westerners.But Mehek Cooke, an attorney born in India who serves as a GOP consultant and commentator, told Fox News Digital that the word is not "some harmless cultural term," but rather a "slur.""It’s the word used back in India to mock outsiders, to say you don’t belong," Cooke said.This came amid a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused Mamdani's campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions.Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due.Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations. &nbsp;

The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.

The Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States. In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel. "Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian." 'Firang' is a term used in Hindu and Urdu for foreigners or Westerners. But Mehek Cooke, an attorney born in India who serves as a GOP consultant and commentator, told Fox News Digital that the word is not "some harmless cultural term," but rather a "slur." "It’s the word used back in India to mock outsiders, to say you don’t belong," Cooke said. This came amid a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused Mamdani's campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions. Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due. Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations.

The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.

'He's not firang': Mira Nair in limelight for using ‘slur’ toward Americans while talking about son Zohran Mamdani

Zohran Mamdani continues to lead in most head-to-head matchups in the race for New York City Mayor. As the election approaches, analysts are watching closely to see if Mamdani can maintain his momentum against other candidates.

NYC Mayoral Race: Zohran Mamdani Leads, Polls Show 

The leading candidate for the US Democratic Party, Zohran Mamdani, is experiencing serious scrutiny after a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused his campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions.&nbsp;Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations.&nbsp;“These are not isolated incidents or clerical errors," Dan Backer, a national campaign finance expert and president of the Coolidge Reagan Foundation, said in a statement.&nbsp;“This was a sustained pattern of foreign money flowing into a New York City mayoral race, which is a clear violation of both federal law and New York City campaign finance rules," Backer added. “Mamdani’s campaign was on notice for months that it was accepting illegal foreign contributions, and yet it did nothing meaningful to stop it," Dan Backer added.<h3>Complaints against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez</h3>In response to the case, the Coolidge Reagan Foundation has called on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the US Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute Mamdani for allegedly receiving illegal donations from countries including Australia, Turkey, France, Canada, and Germany.&nbsp;Previously, the foundation has also filed a complaint against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and the presidential campaign of Hillary Clinton and the Democratic National Committee.&nbsp;Mamdani’s campaign spokesperson, Dora Pekec, told Fox News Digital, “All U.S. citizens and permanent residents, including those who live outside the US, are legally permitted to donate to New York City mayoral campaigns under federal campaign finance law and New York State and City law."&nbsp;“The Campaign has a rigorous compliance process in place to ensure compliance with these laws, including a protocol to confirm whether donors with foreign addresses are US citizens or lawful permanent residents. The Campaign will promptly issue refunds for any donations that are found to be impermissible," Pekec added.&nbsp;She further added that a few of the questionable donations have come from US citizens staying in other nations. In a nutshell, the Mamdani campaign has raised around $4 million in private donations and $12.7 million in public matching funds.

Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States.

The leading candidate for the US Democratic Party, Zohran Mamdani, is experiencing serious scrutiny after a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused his campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions. Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due. Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations. “These are not isolated incidents or clerical errors," Dan Backer, a national campaign finance expert and president of the Coolidge Reagan Foundation, said in a statement. “This was a sustained pattern of foreign money flowing into a New York City mayoral race, which is a clear violation of both federal law and New York City campaign finance rules," Backer added. “Mamdani’s campaign was on notice for months that it was accepting illegal foreign contributions, and yet it did nothing meaningful to stop it," Dan Backer added. Complaints against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez In response to the case, the Coolidge Reagan Foundation has called on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the US Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute Mamdani for allegedly receiving illegal donations from countries including Australia, Turkey, France, Canada, and Germany. Previously, the foundation has also filed a complaint against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and the presidential campaign of Hillary Clinton and the Democratic National Committee. Mamdani’s campaign spokesperson, Dora Pekec, told Fox News Digital, “All U.S. citizens and permanent residents, including those who live outside the US, are legally permitted to donate to New York City mayoral campaigns under federal campaign finance law and New York State and City law." “The Campaign has a rigorous compliance process in place to ensure compliance with these laws, including a protocol to confirm whether donors with foreign addresses are US citizens or lawful permanent residents. The Campaign will promptly issue refunds for any donations that are found to be impermissible," Pekec added. She further added that a few of the questionable donations have come from US citizens staying in other nations. In a nutshell, the Mamdani campaign has raised around $4 million in private donations and $12.7 million in public matching funds.

Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States.

Zohran Mamdani faces probe over alleged illegal foreign donations in NYC mayoral campaign: Here's what we know

New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have sparked a controversy after they posted a photo showing themselves doing a hand gesture, which many described as “Nazi salutes”, at a rally in Queens on Sunday (Oct 26). Mamdani, along with his backers AOC and Bernie Sanders, framed the election as a one-on-one battle against President Donald Trump and his administration.Sharing the picture on X, Mamdani wrote, “Thank you, New York City. Now let’s win.” In the photo, Mamdani and AOC can be seen making a gesture at the crowd as Sanders stands beside them.Responding to the post, US Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, questioned, “Are those Nazi salutes?” To this, Elon Musk replied, “Sure looks like it.” The billionaire previously came under fire for making a similar gesture at the crowd.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Are those Nazi salutes? <a href="https://t.co/84RCso5JCN">https://t.co/84RCso5JCN</a>&mdash; Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) <a href="https://twitter.com/tedcruz/status/1982809002028220547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘World is changing’</h2>Taking the stage at a tennis stadium in Queens, where thousands gathered to support Mamdani, the mayoral hopeful talked about his path to the Democratic nomination. He said that at one point he was tired in polls with “someone else” at 1 per cent, as quoted by NBC News.“Now as we stand on the precipice of taking this city back from corrupt politicians and the billionaires that fund them, let our words ring out so loud tonight that Andrew Cuomo can hear them in his $8,000-a-month apartment,” Mamdani said. He added that he hoped Cuomo’s “puppet master in the White House” could hear them, too.“We climbed in the polls faster than Andrew Cuomo could dial Donald Trump’s number,” he added. “People began to be able to pronounce my name.” Former governor Cuomo is running as an independent in the general elections.Mamdani called for an end to the era of government that “deems an issue too small or a crisis too big.”“Because we need a government that is every bit as ambitious as our adversaries,” he said. “A government strong enough to refuse the realities we will not accept and forge the future. No longer will we allow the Republican Party to be the one of ambition.”He further added, “No longer will we have to open a history book to read about Democrats leading with big ideas. My friends, the world is changing. It’s not a question of whether that change will come. It’s a question of who will change it.”

In the photo, Mamdani and AOC can be seen making a gesture at the crowd as Sanders stands beside them. Responding to the post, Ted Cruz questioned whether they were doing “Nazi salutes”.

New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have sparked a controversy after they posted a photo showing themselves doing a hand gesture, which many described as “Nazi salutes”, at a rally in Queens on Sunday (Oct 26). Mamdani, along with his backers AOC and Bernie Sanders, framed the election as a one-on-one battle against President Donald Trump and his administration. Sharing the picture on X, Mamdani wrote, “Thank you, New York City. Now let’s win.” In the photo, Mamdani and AOC can be seen making a gesture at the crowd as Sanders stands beside them. Responding to the post, US Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, questioned, “Are those Nazi salutes?” To this, Elon Musk replied, “Sure looks like it.” The billionaire previously came under fire for making a similar gesture at the crowd.

In the photo, Mamdani and AOC can be seen making a gesture at the crowd as Sanders stands beside them. Responding to the post, Ted Cruz questioned whether they were doing “Nazi salutes”.

‘Are those Nazi salutes?’ Zohran Mamdani and his ally’s gesture at New York rally sparks controversy

New York mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani, in an interview, said that he would take US President Donald Trump’s administration to court once he becomes the mayor. Mamdani, who until a few months ago was an unknown local lawmaker, has in recent days burst onto the New York political scene and is closing in on becoming the first Muslim mayor of America's most populous city. Speaking to CNN, the NYC mayoral hopeful was asked about Trump’s latest pronouncements, sending troops to different US cities and if he could “really stop armoured vehicles from rolling down Canal Street with lawyers”. Here’s what he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-scared-of-putin-s-new-nuclear-powered-missile-all-about-russia-s-flying-chernobyl-1761552724460">Trump scared of Putin’s new nuclear-powered missile? All about Russia’s ‘Flying Chernobyl’</a><h2>Mamdani to sue Trump?</h2>New York mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani has vowed to take Trump’s administration to court if elected, saying the city must stand up to Washington instead of collaborating with it. Speaking in the interview, the Democratic Socialist and state assemblyman from Queens acknowledged that many cities were “treating Trump’s pronouncements as law” but promised to resist.“What we would do in running this city is first to actually take this administration to court and to do so immediately, as opposed to being pressured into it,” Mamdani said.He cited Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s defiance after Trump threatened to strip the city of its World Cup hosting rights. “When the president said that he was going to take away World Cup hosting responsibilities from Boston, she responded to it as it should be responded to, which is that this is ridiculous. This is a violation of agreements that have already been signed,” Mamdani said, promising to bring the same approach to New York.“It's important for New Yorkers to know that they have someone who's actually standing up for them,” he noted.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-provoking-a-war-in-caribbean-venezuela-slams-us-exercises-in-trinidad-claims-arrest-of-cia-backed-mercenaries-1761545584808">Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries</a><h2>Mamdani emerges as frontrunner</h2>Mamdani, 34, has emerged as the unexpected frontrunner in the mayoral race ahead of the November 4 election, buoyed by high-profile support from Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). Both left-wing figures joined Mamdani at a massive rally in Queens on Sunday, a day after early voting began.“We will send a loud message to President Donald Trump that his authoritarianism is no good here,” AOC told cheering crowds, who responded with chants of “AOC.”Sanders said the world was watching New York’s election closely. “These are not normal times,” he said. “This election takes place at a time when we have a president who has given a trillion dollars in tax breaks to the top one per cent.”

NYC mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani says he’ll take Trump’s administration to court if elected, vowing to “stand up to Washington.” Backed by Bernie Sanders and AOC, Mamdani says cities shouldn’t treat Trump’s orders as law — “New York must fight back.”

New York mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani, in an interview, said that he would take US President Donald Trump’s administration to court once he becomes the mayor. Mamdani, who until a few months ago was an unknown local lawmaker, has in recent days burst onto the New York political scene and is closing in on becoming the first Muslim mayor of America's most populous city. Speaking to CNN, the NYC mayoral hopeful was asked about Trump’s latest pronouncements, sending troops to different US cities and if he could “really stop armoured vehicles from rolling down Canal Street with lawyers”. Here’s what he said. Also read | Trump scared of Putin’s new nuclear-powered missile? All about Russia’s ‘Flying Chernobyl’ Mamdani to sue Trump? New York mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani has vowed to take Trump’s administration to court if elected, saying the city must stand up to Washington instead of collaborating with it. Speaking in the interview, the Democratic Socialist and state assemblyman from Queens acknowledged that many cities were “treating Trump’s pronouncements as law” but promised to resist. “What we would do in running this city is first to actually take this administration to court and to do so immediately, as opposed to being pressured into it,” Mamdani said. He cited Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s defiance after Trump threatened to strip the city of its World Cup hosting rights. “When the president said that he was going to take away World Cup hosting responsibilities from Boston, she responded to it as it should be responded to, which is that this is ridiculous. This is a violation of agreements that have already been signed,” Mamdani said, promising to bring the same approach to New York. “It's important for New Yorkers to know that they have someone who's actually standing up for them,” he noted. Also read | Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries Mamdani emerges as frontrunner Mamdani, 34, has emerged as the unexpected frontrunner in the mayoral race ahead of the November 4 election, buoyed by high-profile support from Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). Both left-wing figures joined Mamdani at a massive rally in Queens on Sunday, a day after early voting began. “We will send a loud message to President Donald Trump that his authoritarianism is no good here,” AOC told cheering crowds, who responded with chants of “AOC.” Sanders said the world was watching New York’s election closely. “These are not normal times,” he said. “This election takes place at a time when we have a president who has given a trillion dollars in tax breaks to the top one per cent.”

NYC mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani says he’ll take Trump’s administration to court if elected, vowing to “stand up to Washington.” Backed by Bernie Sanders and AOC, Mamdani says cities shouldn’t treat Trump’s orders as law — “New York must fight back.”

Zohran Mamdani vows to take Trump to court if elected New York mayor

In a war of words on social media with the former MSNBC presenter Mehdi Hassan, Donald Trump's ally Laura Loomer said that if JD Vance's wife were a Muslim woman, he would not have been the vice president of the United States. It all started when Hasan criticised Vance for mocking Mamdani on his emotional remarks about post-9/11 discrimination against Muslims in America.&nbsp;Hassan slammed Vance and said that he is married to a "Brown woman" and still has such opinions about Brown people.&nbsp;“Imagine being married to a Brown woman and having mixed-race kids and then publicly mocking other Brown people as they talk publicly and emotionally about their experience of racism. Vance is just a bad person," the journalist said in a post on X.&nbsp;Zohran vs JD&nbsp;New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamadani said in a clip that his aunt stopped taking the subway after 9/11 because she didn’t feel safe wearing a hijab. “According to Zohran, the real victim of 9/11 was his auntie who got some (allegedly) bad looks," &nbsp;Vance responded on the clip on X.&nbsp;Loomer vs Hasan&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-to-announce-first-phase-of-pan-india-sir-in-10-15-states-tomorrow-1761491438147">Poll panel to announce first phase of pan-India voter list revision on Monday</a>&nbsp;Replying to the journalist, Lommer said, “JD Vance’s wife isn’t a Muslim. If she was, he never would have been Vice President because MAGA isn’t going to ever support a Muslim being in the White House. Do you think Hindus and Muslims are the same? Usha Vance is an accomplished Hindu American. Our problem isn’t with brown people. It’s with Islam."&nbsp;The divorce rumour&nbsp;&nbsp;After a divorce rumour spread by former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, US Vice President JD Vance laughed off the claims, saying he is very grateful to have Usha by her side. When he was asked about Psaki's claim that the Vance couple were facing troubles in their marriage, the US VP said, “I think it’s disgraceful, but of course the second lady can speak for herself.”&nbsp;

It all started when Hasan criticised Vance for mocking Mamdani on his emotional remarks about post-9/11 discrimination against Muslims in America.

In a war of words on social media with the former MSNBC presenter Mehdi Hassan, Donald Trump's ally Laura Loomer said that if JD Vance's wife were a Muslim woman, he would not have been the vice president of the United States. It all started when Hasan criticised Vance for mocking Mamdani on his emotional remarks about post-9/11 discrimination against Muslims in America. Hassan slammed Vance and said that he is married to a "Brown woman" and still has such opinions about Brown people. “Imagine being married to a Brown woman and having mixed-race kids and then publicly mocking other Brown people as they talk publicly and emotionally about their experience of racism. Vance is just a bad person," the journalist said in a post on X. Zohran vs JD New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamadani said in a clip that his aunt stopped taking the subway after 9/11 because she didn’t feel safe wearing a hijab. “According to Zohran, the real victim of 9/11 was his auntie who got some (allegedly) bad looks," Vance responded on the clip on X. Loomer vs Hasan Also read: Poll panel to announce first phase of pan-India voter list revision on Monday Replying to the journalist, Lommer said, “JD Vance’s wife isn’t a Muslim. If she was, he never would have been Vice President because MAGA isn’t going to ever support a Muslim being in the White House. Do you think Hindus and Muslims are the same? Usha Vance is an accomplished Hindu American. Our problem isn’t with brown people. It’s with Islam." The divorce rumour After a divorce rumour spread by former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, US Vice President JD Vance laughed off the claims, saying he is very grateful to have Usha by her side. When he was asked about Psaki's claim that the Vance couple were facing troubles in their marriage, the US VP said, “I think it’s disgraceful, but of course the second lady can speak for herself.”

&nbsp;It all started when Hasan criticised Vance for mocking Mamdani on his emotional remarks about post-9/11 discrimination against Muslims in America.

'If JD Vance's wife was Muslim, he wouldn't have been US VP': Trump ally Laura Loomer

In an emotional speech ahead of voting in New York City mayoral elections, Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.”&nbsp;This comes as on Saturday, in-person voting begun for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Zohran through tears: “My aunt stopped taking the subway after 9/11 because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” Yes, she was the real victim of 9/11 <a href="https://t.co/aILr4JtVvF">pic.twitter.com/aILr4JtVvF</a>&mdash; Greg Price (@greg_price11) <a href="https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/1981785770659586431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“I want to speak to the memory of my aunt who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab. I want to speak to the Muslim who works for our city, whether they teach in our schools or walk the beat for the NYPD,” Mamdani said. “To be Muslim in New York is to expect indignity, but indignity does not make us distinct. There are many New Yorkers who face it. It is the tolerance of that indignity that does,” Mamdani added. “Since I announced my candidacy for mayor one year ago yesterday, I have sought to be the candidate fighting for every single New Yorker, not simply the Muslim candidate. I’ve carried these indignities with me each moment of this race, doing so all the while as the first major Muslim candidate in the history of our city, he added. Mamdani also criticised his opponents Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa for Islamophobic statements and said, “And every day, Super PAC ads imply that I am a terrorist or mock the way I eat.”<h2>Mamdani slammed for ‘Muslim identity’ speech</h2>Slamming Mamdani, US Vice President JD Vance in a post on X, sarcastically said that according to Zohran, the real victim of 9/11 was his aunt, who supposedly received some unfriendly looks. Lux Capital cofounder Josh Wolfe also said on X that Mamdani ruined his campaign with his remarks, calling them fake and unrepresentative of New Yorkers. Meanwhile, Greg Price commented sarcastically that Mamdani’s aunt was being portrayed as the true victim of 9/11.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">According to Zohran the real victim of 9/11 was his auntie who got some (allegedly) bad looks <a href="https://t.co/UGeKANSAH2">https://t.co/UGeKANSAH2</a>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1982065405423214724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Democrat Zohran Mamdani, in an emotional NYC mayoral campaign speech, defended his Muslim identity and condemned “racist” attacks. He shared how his aunt stopped taking the subway after 9/11. Critics, including JD Vance mocked his remarks

In an emotional speech ahead of voting in New York City mayoral elections, Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani slammed his opponents for “racist" attacks and defended his Muslim faith. Pledging to further embrace his Muslim identity, Mamdani spoke about the “indignities” long faced by the city’s Muslim population. He was encircled by faith leaders outside a Bronx mosque where he mentioned that he was advised to keep his faith to himself when he entered politics. Holding back his tears and in a choking voice, Mamdani shared about his aunt “who stopped taking the subway after September 11th because she did not feel safe in her hijab.” This comes as on Saturday, in-person voting begun for one of the most closely followed US elections this year — the New York City mayoral race. New Yorkers started casting their votes for Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent.

Democrat Zohran Mamdani, in an emotional NYC mayoral campaign speech, defended his Muslim identity and condemned “racist” attacks. He shared how his aunt stopped taking the subway after 9/11. Critics, including JD Vance mocked his remarks

Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity, says his aunt felt unsafe in hijab after 9/11'; receives response from JD Vance

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani explained why he is critical of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his temple run on the ocassion of Diwali. Stating that he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism, Mamdani, who earlier called the Indian PM a ‘war criminal’ said that Modi and the BJP “has room for certain kinds of Indians”. He made the remarks during his outreach to Hindu American voters on Diwali. Earlier, Mamdani had said that Muslims were eradicated from Gujarat during 2022 riots. The mayoral polls are due this November.&nbsp;&nbsp;"So, I have been critical of Mr. Modi because of the vision that I grew up with was of an India that was pluralistic, an India where everyone belonged, no matter their religion. And my critique has been of Mr. Modi and the BJP political party for their vision of an India that only has room for certain kinds of Indians, and it's part of a belief that pluralism is something to be celebrated, something to be strived for," he said. ""And I also know that I'm running to be the mayor of New York City - eight and a half million people - many of whom may feel differently than me about Mr. Modi, and that's their right, and I will look to represent them all the same, because my responsibility to them as New Yorkers is to ensure that they are safe, to ensure they can afford this city," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Last night I visited four temples across Queens to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, ending at Maharaja Sweets in Jackson Heights, where we gave out six kinds of delicious treats alongside some very special guests. Happy Diwali, NYC! <a href="https://t.co/MKZB6UnrsT">pic.twitter.com/MKZB6UnrsT</a>&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1980606111838355647?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Mamdani and his controversies</h2>With the heat of New York mayoral polls rising, Mamdani was on a temple run to woo the Indian-American voters. Last month, he was accused of wearing shoes inside Hindu temples. However, the organisers of Mamdani’s temple visits have refuted the claim, saying the photo was taken outside the sanctum area, where shoes are still permitted. Mamdani, who registered a spectacular victory in New York mayoral primary, identifies as Democratic socialist, currently represents Astoria and Long Island City in the New York State Assembly. He has been in midst of controversies since his campaign began, with US President Donald Trump also calling him "100 percent Lunatic Communist."

NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, during Diwali outreach, criticized PM Modi for promoting a non-pluralistic India. He emphasised his belief in inclusivity and said his stance stems from growing up in a diverse India.

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani explained why he is critical of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his temple run on the ocassion of Diwali. Stating that he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism, Mamdani, who earlier called the Indian PM a ‘war criminal’ said that Modi and the BJP “has room for certain kinds of Indians”. He made the remarks during his outreach to Hindu American voters on Diwali. Earlier, Mamdani had said that Muslims were eradicated from Gujarat during 2022 riots. The mayoral polls are due this November. "So, I have been critical of Mr. Modi because of the vision that I grew up with was of an India that was pluralistic, an India where everyone belonged, no matter their religion. And my critique has been of Mr. Modi and the BJP political party for their vision of an India that only has room for certain kinds of Indians, and it's part of a belief that pluralism is something to be celebrated, something to be strived for," he said. ""And I also know that I'm running to be the mayor of New York City - eight and a half million people - many of whom may feel differently than me about Mr. Modi, and that's their right, and I will look to represent them all the same, because my responsibility to them as New Yorkers is to ensure that they are safe, to ensure they can afford this city," he added.

NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, during Diwali outreach, criticized PM Modi for promoting a non-pluralistic India. He emphasised his belief in inclusivity and said his stance stems from growing up in a diverse India.

Zohran Mamdani on temple run in Diwali, reveals REAL reason why he is critical of Indian PM Modi

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