Who would have expected former New York governor Andrew Cuomo to lose the Democratic primary for New York City mayor?
Yet, that’s exactly what happened as 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim socialist newcomer, surged ahead, defying the odds against Cuomo’s massive $25 million campaign.
Although the city’s ranked-choice voting means the final winner won’t be officially declared until next week, early counts show Cuomo trailing Mamdani by seven points on the first round—a shocking twist in this high-profile contest.
Cuomo Acknowledges Defeat but Leaves Door Open
In a candid speech to his supporters, Cuomo admitted defeat, acknowledging that Mamdani “won” this round.
He promised to review the results carefully before deciding his next move, but for now, “Tonight is his night,” Cuomo declared.
This moment marks a tough blow for Cuomo, who’s trying to stage a political comeback after resigning as governor amid a sexual harassment scandal just four years ago.
Who Is Zohran Mamdani and What Does He Stand For?
Zohran Mamdani is no typical candidate.
Backed by progressive heavyweights like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, Mamdani has captured attention with promises to tax the wealthy and provide free childcare, free bus rides, cheaper groceries, and more affordable rents for New Yorkers.
If elected, he would become the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor—breaking new ground in NYC politics.
The Primary Race’s Bigger Picture and Political Stakes
Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams chose to skip the Democratic primary altogether, running instead as an independent after his own corruption indictment sparked public controversy.
This has set the stage for a general election showdown between Adams, the Democratic nominee (likely Mamdani), and Republican Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels.
With former President Donald Trump likely entering his second term, this mayoral race is seen as a microcosm of the larger Democratic Party divide: a youthful progressive versus an experienced moderate, though Cuomo’s scandal adds a unique complexity.
Mamdani’s Meteoric Rise and Grassroots Momentum
When the race began, Mamdani was a relatively unknown state legislator.
But his campaign quickly gained steam by focusing sharply on NYC’s crushing cost of living.
His grassroots team of young canvassers knocked on doors relentlessly, flooding social media with slick videos promoting his bold vision of free public services paid for by taxing the rich.
On election night, his supporters’ enthusiasm was palpable—Central Brooklyn’s streets buzzed with excitement, flyers in hands, and hopeful chatter filling the air.
First-time voters like 23-year-old Amani Kojo described the energy as “electric,” saying the city “feels alive again.”
Cuomo’s Criticism and the Clash Over Experience
Cuomo and other Democrats have questioned Mamdani’s readiness to lead, arguing he lacks the experience to manage New York’s vast bureaucracy and handle crises.
They’ve also criticized his outspoken support for Palestinian human rights.
In debates, Cuomo rattled off what he saw as Mamdani’s shortcomings: no congressional experience, no union negotiations, no large infrastructure projects.
He suggested Mamdani wouldn’t be able to stand up to Trump.
Mamdani’s Sharp Response and Cuomo’s Controversial Past
Mamdani fired back, pointing out, “I have never had to resign in disgrace,” a clear reference to Cuomo’s 2021 resignation following a state attorney general report that found Cuomo sexually harassed at least 11 women.
While Cuomo has always denied intentional harassment and calls the findings unfair, his reputation was tarnished.
Throughout the campaign, Cuomo has pushed back hard, framing his downfall as a political attack by enemies.
What’s Next in This High-Stakes Mayoral Battle?
The sudden corruption scandal involving Mayor Eric Adams gave Cuomo a reason to jump back into the race, but now he faces an uphill battle.
With the primary results still being finalized and the general election looming, New Yorkers are watching closely.
The contest between a scandal-tinged veteran and an energetic progressive newcomer could shape the city’s future — and reflect broader national political tensions.
Other Candidates Struggle to Make Their Mark
While Mamdani and Cuomo dominated headlines, other hopefuls like City Comptroller Brad Lander, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, State Senator Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund exec Whitney Tilson, and former Comptroller Scott Stringer struggled to gain traction.
Lander grabbed attention last week after his arrest while protesting alongside a man facing federal detention, but it remains to be seen if that boosted his campaign enough.