Could a 33-year-old socialist and former rapper represent the future of the U.S. Democratic Party?
What happened: Presumptive New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, fresh off a stunning upset against former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, is now the betting favourite to become the city’s next mayor, according to Polymarket odds.
-
While all the votes in the Democratic primary are still being tallied, Mamdani’s victory was clear early on in election night, with Cuomo conceding defeat.
Catch-up: The self-proclaimed democratic socialist entered the race as an underdog, but overcame all odds to capture the votes of everyday New Yorkers through buzzy social media content and simple promises like a rent freeze, free bus fare, and city-owned grocery stores.
-
In the mayoral election on November 4, Mamdani will face off against incumbent mayor Eric Adams, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and, potentially, Cuomo again.
Why it matters: Mamdani may have created a blueprint for the Democratic party to win back voters after they were routed by the Republicans last November. Mamdani has said as much himself, claiming his campaign style and politics can be transplanted anywhere in the U.S.
Bottom line: While establishment Dems might quibble on the lefty politics aspect, one of the party’s top problems is voters feeling that they have lost touch. Maybe making more videos for TikTok and Insta about how chicken over rice costs too much can change that.—QH