New York mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani found himself in an unusual spotlight this weekend—not for politics, but for a gym mishap.
The 33-year-old candidate, known for his far-left platform and controversial stances, struggled to lift a 135-pound barbell during Brooklyn’s annual Men’s Day open streets event.
Dressed in a crisp white collared shirt, black slacks, and dress shoes, Mamdani attempted the bench press while cheered on by a lively crowd.
Despite encouragement from onlookers, including shouts like “This is how you move up in the polls,” Mamdani needed full assistance from his spotter and managed only two repetitions before stepping away.
Social Media Reacts With Ridicule and Jabs
Unsurprisingly, footage of the moment quickly circulated online, drawing both mockery and sharp commentary from political rivals.
Mayor Eric Adams didn’t hold back, tweeting remarks comparing Mamdani’s struggles to his own years of hard work, quipping that “the weight of the job is too heavy for ‘Mamscrawny.’”
Social media users joined in, with comments ranging from humorous jabs about his bench press abilities to critiques of his attempts at projecting a tough image.
One person wrote, “The lefts, in the case communist, attempt to come off masculine… outrageous but hilarious.”
Supporters Defend Mamdani Against Gym Criticism
Not everyone was ready to pile on. Some supporters and commentators reminded the public that running for office has little to do with lifting weights.
“Public service should be about policy and integrity, not proving strength in a gym setting,” one person said.
Another added, “Bench press ain’t everything, homie. Mamdani’s still got mad game.”
Mamdani’s Ambitious Policy Agenda
While his gym performance dominated social media chatter, Mamdani’s campaign continues to focus on progressive policies that aim to transform New York City.
He has proposed raising $9 billion in taxes on millionaires and corporations to fund fare-free buses, free childcare, and affordable housing.
He’s also called for $65 million in transgender healthcare, city-owned grocery stores, and has floated plans to defund the NYPD.
Adding to his controversy, Mamdani pledged that he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited the city.
The Race to Become Mayor
Mamdani won the Democratic nomination after a surprise victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
However, the general election field is crowded.
His main competitors include Cuomo and current Mayor Eric Adams, both running as independents, along with former US Attorney Jim Walden and perennial Republican Curtis Sliwa.
The young candidate has also faced criticism for hosting an extravagant wedding at his parents’ million-dollar compound in Uganda.
Around the same time, one of his controversial anti-NYPD tweets resurfaced, reigniting debate after a Midtown shooting left four people dead, including NYPD Officer Didarul Islam.
