Newyork, 5 November 2025 - Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democrat and son of Ugandan and Indian immigrants, has made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim mayor, and its youngest leader in more than a century. His stunning victory over former governor Andrew Cuomo marks a political shift driven by working-class New Yorkers seeking change from years of establishment politics.
In a spirited victory speech at the Brooklyn Paramount, Mamdani said the win was “a mandate for a city we can afford, and a government that delivers exactly that.” He praised the thousands of volunteers who powered his grassroots campaign, saying, “The future is in our hands. My friends, we have toppled a political dynasty.” Known for his progressive ideals and bold advocacy, Mamdani has long championed housing rights, transport reforms, and social equality.
During his campaign, he pledged to freeze rent increases for over two million tenants, make buses fast and free, and
provide universal child care. “This city will no longer serve the few,” he said. “We will build a City Hall that works for everyone , the Yemeni bodega owner, the Mexican grandmother, the Senegalese taxi driver, and every single New Yorker who keeps this city alive.”
Mamdani also took aim at political corruption and inequality, promising to “hold bad landlords accountable” and tackle New York’s cost-of-living crisis. His message of inclusion struck a chord in a city shaped by immigrants and struggling with widening economic gaps.
Addressing the crowd, he added, “New York will remain a city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and as of tonight, led by an immigrant.” Political analysts say his victory signals a generational and ideological transformation in New York politics, reflecting a growing appetite for progressive change. His campaign inspired hope among young voters and marginalized communities who felt left behind.
Ending his speech on a poetic note, Mamdani led the crowd in a call-and-response:
“Together, New York, we’re going to freeze the…[rent!]
Together, we’re going to make buses…[free!]
Together, we’re going to deliver universal…[child care!]”
