Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Democratic Mayoral Primary in Stunning Upset
June 25, 2025 — Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist and state assemblyman from Queens, has claimed victory in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary, delivering a dramatic political upset over former Governor Andrew Cuomo and setting up a high-stakes general election against incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.
With over 90% of precincts reporting, Mamdani led with approximately 44% of the vote, significantly outpacing Cuomo’s 36%. Cuomo, who sought a political comeback after resigning amid scandal four years ago, conceded the race late Tuesday night, calling Mamdani to congratulate him and telling supporters, “Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.”
Mamdani’s campaign energized younger and first-time voters with promises to address the city’s affordability crisis through initiatives like free public transportation, affordable child care, and community-owned grocery stores. His grassroots-driven approach and viral online presence helped him surge from relative obscurity to a commanding lead in the crowded primary field.
In his victory speech, Mamdani invoked Nelson Mandela, declaring, “It always seems impossible until it’s done. My friends, it is done. And you are the ones who did it.” He pledged to be “mayor for every New Yorker,” including those who did not vote for him or felt disillusioned by the political system.
The win positions Mamdani as the Democratic nominee heading into the November general election, where he will face Eric Adams, who is running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary, and likely Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa. Adams, in a Fox News interview, dismissed Mamdani as a “snake oil salesman,” criticizing his tax proposals and questioning his readiness for the mayoralty.
Meanwhile, some Republican voters have called on former President Donald Trump to invoke the Communist Control Act of 1954 to block Mamdani’s candidacy, sparking debate over the constitutionality and feasibility of such a move. Mamdani, whose parents are Indian-American and Ugandan, has also drawn attention for his strong progressive stances, including condemning Trump-era military actions and calling for an end to ongoing wars.
Mamdani’s campaign has generated controversy as well, notably over his suggestion that he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited New York City, a statement that has been widely discussed in both local and national media.
The final official results will be determined after the city’s ranked-choice voting process is completed, but Mamdani’s substantial lead has made his nomination all but certain.