Zohran Mamdani overturned political heavyweight Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary of New York City Mayor (June 25), shocking the 33-year-old former rapper turned state legislator with his grassroots campaign against working-class voters. The Queens MP celebrated the upset people in front of the crowds in Astoria, proclaiming: “My […]
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Zohran Mamdani overturned political heavyweight Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary of New York City Mayor (June 25), shocking the 33-year-old former rapper turned state legislator with his grassroots campaign against working-class voters.
The Queens councillor celebrated his frustration in front of the crowds in Astoria, proclaiming: “My friends, we did…I will be your Democratic candidate for your New York City Mayor.”
Democratic socialist Mamdani has strongly leaned towards a platform focused on affordability and public services, promoting free childcare, free buses and city-run grocery stores.
“We won because New Yorkers have stood up for an affordable city, and they can do more cities, not just struggle, and those who work at night can enjoy the fruits of their labor during the day.”
Mamdani: We won because New Yorkers have stood up for their affordable city. They can do more than just struggle cities. The mayor will use his power to reject Donald Trump’s fascism. pic.twitter.com/gncoq9ovsl
—Acyn (@acyn) June 25, 2025
Preliminary results show that Mamdani’s first selective vote is about 43.5% to 44%, while Cuomo’s lag time is about 36%.
While no candidate crosses the 50% threshold required to win thoroughly, Cuomo acknowledged ahead of the ranking options list.
Andrew Cuomo acknowledged; acknowledged Zohran Mamdani’s “Great Campaign”
“Mamdani had a great sport, he touched the young people, inspired them and moved them out and let them come out to vote,” Cuomo said. “Tonight was his night. He deserved it. He won.”
Supported by progressive leaders such as Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mamdani’s campaign attracted the energy of local organizers and activists who helped him build momentum in the five boroughs.
He promised to be inclusive: “Whether you vote for me, Governor Cuomo, or are disillusioned by me by a long-breaking political system, I will be the mayor of every New Yorker and can’t vote at all.”
Before entering politics, Mamdani started a rap career under the names of young cardamom and Mr. Cardamom.
His 2016 EP was created with Abdul Bar Hussein, blending six languages and paying tribute to his Ugandan roots.
In 2019, he released “Nani”, a cheeky tribute to actress Madhur Jaffrey’s grandmother.
His music is often filled with humor and social commentary, addressing issues such as racism and colonialism.
Mamdani attributes his time as a rapper, teaching him how to connect with people in the local world – skills that translate into his political rise.
Zohran Mamdani is widely expected to win the election in November as Democrats dominate the last three mayoral matches.
