Changing Times In New York City

 

Zohran Mamdani, a 33 year-old Democratic Socialist of Indian Muslim heritage, has apparently won the Democratic primary for mayor, over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who was initially favored as the city's choice. From the Associated Press:

"Zohran Mamdani declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary Tuesday night after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset, as the young, progressive upstart who was virtually unknown when the contest began built a substantial lead over the more experienced but scandal-scarred former governor.

Though the race’s ultimate outcome will still be decided by a ranked choice count, Mamdani took a commanding position just hours after the polls closed.

With victory all but assured, Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist who ran an energetic campaign centered on the cost of living, told supporters, “I will be your Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City.”

Voters were able to rank their choices for mayor on the ballot, and Mamdani appeared to be far ahead of Cuomo as their first choice. While the Democratic nominee for mayor in New York City is normally heavily favored for the general election, there are spoilers that Mamdani will have to deal with, including possibly Cuomo who said he "would take a look and make some decisions." Also, conservative current mayor, Eric Adams, a favorite of the Malignant Fascist, has declared his intent to run as an independent.

The primary contest was painted as a generational and philosophical race between the well-funded establishment candidate Cuomo and the young grass roots progressive focused on bringing down the cost of living for everyday New Yorkers. Let's hope the spoilers are defeated in the general election in order to give Mamdani's vision a chance to work.

BONUS:  Former Obama aide Dan Pfeiffer put it this way --

“What’s happening in NYC is a blaringly loud message to those in the Dem establishment who still cling to old politics, recite focus-grouped talking points, and are too afraid to say what needs to be said."

(photo: David 'Dee' Delgado / Reuters)