Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani delivered a powerful victory speech early Wednesday morning after pulling off a surprising win in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a closely watched race.
The 33-year-old democratic socialist is now poised to become the party’s nominee—and potentially the city’s next mayor, given Democrats’ dominance in NYC politics.
“Tonight, we made history,” Mamdani told a cheering crowd just after midnight. “In the words of Nelson Mandela, it always seems impossible until it is done… I will be your Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City.”
In his speech, Mamdani portrayed his campaign as part of a wider movement for working-class New Yorkers, highlighting the geographic and economic diversity of his support.
“We have won from Harlem to Bay Ridge, from Jackson Heights to Port Richmond,” he said. “New Yorkers have stood up for a city they can afford—where those who work the night shift can enjoy the light of day.”
He laid out a vision for a more equitable city, calling for rent-stabilized housing that actually stays affordable, fast and free public transit, universal childcare, and wages that can sustain a family.
“Where eight hours behind the wheel or on the factory floor pays the bills, keeps the lights on, and sends your kid to school,” he said. “Where dignity isn’t a luxury—it’s a right.”
Turning to national politics, Mamdani strongly criticized former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
“We will reject Trump’s fascism,” he said. “As mayor, I will stop ICE from tearing our families apart. This city will be a shield, not a staging ground, for federal deportation forces. We will govern in a way that reminds the Democratic Party what it means to fight for working people without apology.”
He concluded his speech with a message of possibility:
“A life of dignity should not be reserved for a fortunate few,” Mamdani said. “If this campaign proved anything, it’s that bold dreams can become real.”
With 93% of first-round votes counted, Mamdani leads with 43.5%, followed by Cuomo at 36.4%. Under the city’s ranked-choice voting system, second-choice votes are still being tabulated, but Mamdani is expected to gain from his alliance with third-place candidate Brad Lander, who holds 11.4%.
Cuomo called Mamdani shortly after polls closed to offer congratulations but has not yet officially conceded.
“Tonight is his night. He earned it,” Cuomo said. “He ran an inspiring campaign and energized a lot of young voters. I respect that.”
