New York City has chosen change over comfort, backing an underdog who promises to shake up the system from the ground up, and his roots trace back to Cape Town.
Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old state lawmaker and self-proclaimed socialist, has stunned the political establishment by winning the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, defeating heavyweight contender Andrew Cuomo, as reported by Sky News .
With over 95 of ballots counted, Mamdani leads by a solid margin, securing 43.5 of the vote compared to Cuomo's 36.4. His victory speech, delivered to a roaring crowd of supporters, was crystal clear: 'Today with the vision of the city that every New Yorker can afford, we have won.'
His campaign, once considered a long shot, turned into a progressive juggernaut. Mamdani's message? Free buses, universal childcare, affordable housing and a minimum wage hike, all to be funded through higher taxes on the wealthy. Slick, fast-paced videos on social media helped turn him from political outsider to a household name, especially among younger voters burdened by the rising cost of living.
But Mamdani's rise isn't just a win for progressives, it's a blow to former governor Andrew Cuomo, who was eyeing a dramatic political comeback after resigning in disgrace in 2021 over sexual harassment allegations. Cuomo, whose campaign was built on experience and name recognition, had early momentum until the grassroots machine behind Mamdani gained steam. The former governor has since conceded, saying: 'Tonight is his night.'
