Progressive Assemblyman Takes Commanding Lead Over Former Governor
In a major upset during Tuesday’s Democratic primary, New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani secured a significant lead over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the race for New York City mayor. Mamdani, 33, who identifies as a democratic socialist and represents Queens, energized young voters with a platform focused on affordability and public services.
With 93% of the vote counted, Mamdani held 43.5% of first-choice votes under the city’s ranked-choice system. Cuomo followed with 36.4%. Although final results will not be certified until ranked-choice tabulations conclude by July 1, Cuomo conceded the race on Tuesday evening.
Mamdani Declares Victory and Calls for Unity
Speaking to supporters at a rally in Queens, Mamdani declared victory and emphasized his campaign’s grassroots nature. “Tonight we made history,” he said. “Whether you voted for me, Governor Cuomo, or didn’t vote at all, I will work to build a city that is affordable and safe for all.”
The assemblyman’s campaign emphasized public ownership of services, including grocery stores, free bus service, universal child care, and a rent freeze for stabilized apartments. He proposed raising $10 billion in new revenue from taxes on corporations and wealthy residents to fund his programs.
Cuomo Concedes, Remains Noncommittal on Independent Run
Former Governor Cuomo acknowledged defeat shortly after polls closed, telling supporters that Mamdani “won” and offering congratulations. Cuomo, 67, had entered the race late and ran a subdued campaign focused on experience and stability.
Cuomo has qualified to appear on the November general election ballot as an independent but did not confirm whether he will continue his campaign. “I’ll wait for ranked-choice results to decide,” he said.
Record Turnout and Generational Divide
The primary saw a notable increase in participation, with voter turnout nearly doubling compared to 2021. Mamdani drew strong support from younger voters and was endorsed by progressive figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Cuomo retained backing from much of the Democratic establishment and received support from former President Bill Clinton and former Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Despite substantial outside spending in support of Cuomo, Mamdani’s campaign garnered the highest number of small-dollar donations.
What Comes Next in the Mayoral Race
If Mamdani secures the nomination, he will become the leading candidate in the November general election. Other contenders include current Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent amid low approval ratings and prior federal investigations, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Former federal prosecutor Jim Walden is also running as an independent.
This primary marks the second use of ranked-choice voting in a New York City mayoral election. Final results are expected on July 1, pending redistribution of voters’ ranked preferences.
