Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the 111th mayor of New York City, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani, 34, becomes the city’s first Muslim mayor and the youngest mayor in over a century. The Democratic socialist and state assembly member from Queens won with more than 50% of the vote. Cuomo, 67, finished second with just over 40%, while Sliwa received about 7%. Mamdani’s victory comes amid a series of Democratic wins across the United States. In Virginia, Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger became the state’s first female governor, and in New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill won a major race against a Trump-backed opponent. California voters also supported redistricting plans proposed by Governor Gavin Newsom, creating five new congressional seats for Democrats. When Mamdani launched his mayoral campaign last fall, he was relatively unknown. His message focused on affordability and resonated with thousands of New Yorkers. Key proposals included freezing rents on rent-stabilized units, expanding affordable housing, raising the minimum wage to $30 an hour, making bus rides free, and increasing taxes on the city’s wealthiest residents. The campaign was fueled by small-dollar donations, tens of thousands of volunteers, and strong social media outreach. Mamdani gained momentum during the June Democratic primary, defeating Cuomo by nearly 13 points with support from a diverse coalition of young and first-time voters. Mamdani received endorsements from prominent progressive leaders, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Other backers included Representative Jerry Nadler, New York Attorney General Letitia James, Governor Kathy Hochul, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Not all Democrats supported Mamdani. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand did not endorse any candidate. Despite opposition, Mamdani maintained a lead in polls throughout the campaign, including against Cuomo’s independent run after his primary defeat. Mamdani faced attacks over his age, experience, and progressive policies. Critics targeted his stance on Israel and Gaza, as well as his support for Palestinian rights. He also faced Islamophobic attacks on social media and from political opponents. During the campaign, Mamdani called out racist attacks, including a conservative radio comment suggesting he would “cheer” if another 9/11 occurred. He also condemned a Super PAC flyer that manipulated his image to exaggerate his beard. Former President Donald Trump labeled Mamdani a “radical” and a “communist,” endorsing Cuomo on the eve of the election. Elon Musk also urged voters to support Cuomo. Despite these challenges, Mamdani’s campaign inspired thousands of progressives nationwide to consider running for office. Born in Uganda to Indian parents, Mamdani moved to New York City at age seven and became a U.S. citizen in 2018. His win marks multiple historic milestones: first Muslim mayor, first South Asian mayor, and youngest mayor in more than a century. On election night, Mamdani’s supporters at the Brooklyn Paramount erupted in celebration after his victory was called. Mamdani later shared a video on social media showing a subway announcement: “The next and last stop is city hall.” His victory signals a shift in New York politics, reflecting strong grassroots support and a call for progressive change across the city.