Zohran Mamdani, son of Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, is a self-declared socialist who is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America party.
U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani on Thursday after the latter secured victory in the Democratic primary. Trump called Mamdani’s win a breaking point for the Democratic Party.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump referred to Mamdani as a “100% Communist Lunatic” and mocked his candidacy for mayor as “ridiculous.”
“He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart, he’s got AOC+3—Dummies ALL—backing him, and even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is groveling over him,” Trump wrote.
Who is Zohran Mamdani?
Mamdani, 33, is a self-described socialist and member of the Democratic Socialists of America. He is the son of Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and is currently a New York State Assembly member. His victory in the Democratic primary positions him to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor, with former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceding the race.
“Tonight we made history,” Mamdani said during his victory speech to supporters. In a sarcastic follow-up to his criticism, Trump added, “Yes, this is a big moment in the History of our Country!”
Mamdani has been outspoken in his criticism of Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has publicly expressed support for Palestinians—stances that starkly contrast with Trump’s own views.
Cuomo Concedes After Trailing in Polls
Andrew Cuomo, 67, once seen as Mamdani’s most formidable rival, conceded the race after receiving just 36% of the vote with 95% of ballots counted. Mamdani led with 43%. Cuomo, a former New York governor and son of late Governor Mario Cuomo, attempted a political comeback despite lingering controversy from a sexual harassment scandal four years ago.
Mixed Reaction Within Democratic Party
Mamdani’s win has stirred debate within the Democratic Party. While some view it as a hopeful sign of progressive momentum, others have expressed concern about the party’s direction.
Lawrence Summers, former Treasury Secretary under President Barack Obama, echoed some of Trump’s concerns, stating:
“I am profoundly alarmed about the future of the (Democratic Party) and the country” in response to the New York primary results.
However, Mamdani has also drawn strong support from key progressive figures. Senator Bernie Sanders praised his victory and platform, which focuses heavily on addressing the rising cost of living in New York.
“In many ways, Mamdani’s campaign really shows the direction in which the Democratic Party should be moving. And that is not to worry about what billionaires want, but to worry about what working-class people want,” Sanders said.
Sanders also pushed back against Mamdani’s critics and warned Republicans that Mamdani could be a powerful political force moving forward.
