Historic Win: Zohran Mamdani Elected as New York City’s First Muslim Mayor

Historic Win for Zohran Mamdani

Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democratic Socialist, has made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim mayor after securing a decisive victory in the 2025 mayoral election.
According to CBS News, Mamdani earned 1,035,645 votes (50.4%), defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo who gained 854,783 votes (41.6%), and Republican Curtis Sliwa who secured 146,127 votes (7.1%).

This victory marks a major political milestone for both the Democratic Party and for Muslim representation in U.S. politics.

A Symbol of Hope and Change

Celebrating his win at a rally in Brooklyn, Mamdani said,

“Hope is alive. We won because New Yorkers believed the impossible could be made possible.”

He emphasized that New York will now be a city where Islamophobia has no place, and where diversity, equality, and opportunity thrive.

Quoting Jawaharlal Nehru, Mamdani added:

“A moment comes, but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new — when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance.”

Background and Early Life

Mamdani was born in Uganda to a family of Indian origin and moved to the United States at age seven. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2018.

His political journey began as a state lawmaker, and in a few short years, he has risen to become one of the most recognized figures in American progressive politics.

Taking on Corruption and Inequality

In his victory speech, Mamdani promised to end political corruption and ensure fair taxation:

“We will stop the culture of corruption that lets billionaires like Trump avoid taxes and exploit loopholes.”

He vowed to stand with workers, unions, and marginalized communities, pledging to build a city hall that represents every New Yorker — including immigrants, women, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Mamdani also addressed the fight against anti-Semitism, saying New York will be a city “where Jewish and Muslim New Yorkers know they belong.”

Message to Donald Trump

In a direct message to the former U.S. President, Mamdani said humorously:

“Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching — I have four words for you: Turn the volume up!”

He promised to lead a city that stands as “a light in this moment of political darkness.”

Celebration with Bollywood Beats

The celebration concluded with the hit Bollywood song “Dhoom Machale” playing across the venue — symbolizing Mamdani’s multicultural roots and the city’s diverse spirit.

Leaders Congratulate Mamdani

The historic win drew praise from political figures across the country:

• Bill Clinton congratulated Mamdani, wishing him success “in building a better, fairer, and more affordable New York.”

• Hillary Clinton highlighted that voter turnout was the highest in 50 years.

• Bernie Sanders called the result “one of the greatest political upsets in modern American history,” praising Mamdani for representing “working people, not the 1%.”

• Barack Obama said, “When we come together around strong, forward-looking leaders, we can win. The future looks brighter tonight.”

Ghazala Hashmi Makes History in Virginia

In another historic win, Ghazala Hashmi became the first Muslim woman to hold statewide office in the United States after winning the Virginia lieutenant governor race.
She defeated Republican John Reid with 747,773 votes (53.8%) to 659,421 (46.4%).

Born in Hyderabad, India, Hashmi moved to the U.S. as a student, later earning a Ph.D. in English from Emory University. Her victory follows years of service as a Virginia state senator, making her a trailblazer for South Asian women in American politics.

Democrats Sweep Key Races

Democrats also celebrated wins in Virginia and New Jersey:

• Abigail Spanberger became Virginia’s first female governor, defeating Republican Earle-Sears.

• Mikie Sherrill won the New Jersey governor’s race, making history as Democrats secured three consecutive gubernatorial terms for the first time since the 1960s.

These victories signal a strong Democratic resurgence ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Trump’s Reaction

Former President Donald Trump reacted to the Republican defeats on Truth Social, claiming that losses were due to “Trump not being on the ballot” and the ongoing government shutdown.