Zohran Mamdani becomes NYC's first Muslim mayor
What's the story
Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani has won the 2025 New York City mayoral election. He defeated former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa, making history as the city's first Muslim mayor. He will also be the city's youngest mayor in almost a century when he takes office on January 1. The election saw a record voter turnout with over two million ballots cast, the highest since 1969.
Election dynamics
Mamdani backed by progressive leaders
Mamdani, a 34-year-old Muslim state legislator and self-proclaimed democratic socialist, was backed by progressive leaders like Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. President Donald Trump had endorsed Cuomo on Truth Social, saying voting for the Republican nominee Sliwa would indirectly benefit Mamdani. "Whether you personally like Andrew Cuomo or not, you really have no choice. You must vote for him and hope he does a fantastic job," Trump wrote.
Campaign strategies
Cuomo's campaign faced challenges
Cuomo's campaign was marred by controversies, including his resignation over a sexual harassment scandal. He had hoped to return to office as an independent candidate with Trump's backing. Mamdani campaigned on working-class issues and received endorsements from progressive leaders. His victory marks a significant shift in New York City's political landscape and is seen as a referendum on Trump's presidency.
Victory declaration
Mamdani thanks supporters in victory speech
Earlier, Mamdani had said he would work to make New York City a better place for all its residents, irrespective of whether they supported him or not. He also thanked his supporters and promised to be a mayor for everyone, regardless of their political affiliation. Meanwhile, in Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger has become the state's first female governor after defeating Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears.
Governor victories
Sherrill wins New Jersey governor's race
Spanberger, a former Democratic congresswoman and CIA officer, said her victory was a message to choose pragmatism over partisanship. "Tonight we sent a message," she said during her victory speech. In New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the gubernatorial race, securing another major win for Democrats in their first election cycle since the start of Trump's second term.