On June 24, 2025, Zohran Mamdani, a progressive newcomer, took a commanding lead over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, with 43.5% to 36.4% of votes, according to the city’s elections board, with 95% of ballot scanners reporting.
The ranked-choice voting system, allowing voters to select up to five candidates in order of preference, means final results are expected next week. Still, Mamdani’s lead appears insurmountable, bolstered by third-place finisher Brad Lander’s endorsement.
The primary, a key indicator of Democratic direction five months into President Donald Trump’s second term, highlighted a clash between Mamdani’s progressive vision and Cuomo’s moderate, establishment-backed approach. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist of Ugandan-Indian descent, could become NYC’s first Muslim mayor. His platform, supported by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, promises a break from traditional politics.
Andrew Cuomo concedes as Zohran Mamdani wins NYC Democratic mayoral primary in stunning upset https://t.co/SR62RBnNOr pic.twitter.com/dVx7WbVxbv
— New York Post (@nypost) June 25, 2025Cuomo, endorsed by Bill Clinton and Michael Bloomberg, faced criticism over past harassment allegations, which he denies. Voters like Leah Johanson, 39, from Queens, rejected Cuomo, citing these accusations, while Ignacio Tambunting, 28, from Manhattan, backed Mamdani for his youth and diversity.
New York’s ranked-choice system eliminates the lowest-scoring candidate each round, redistributing their votes to supporters’ next preferences until a candidate reaches 50%. Mamdani’s lead will likely grow, as he and Lander (11.6% of first-choice votes) urged supporters to rank each other second. Lander’s recent detention at an immigration court protest amplified his progressive credentials, further aiding Mamdani.
In a remarkable upset, 33-year-old state Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani has outperformed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the June 24 Democratic New York City primary for mayor.
“Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won," Cuomo said.
Read more: https://t.co/KxRsAUwkDq pic.twitter.com/0Ilz912uAJ
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) June 25, 2025Given Democrats ‘ dominance in NYC, Mamdani is favoured in the November 2025 general election. He faces Republican Curtis Sliwa, a radio host and Guardian Angels founder, and independent Mayor Eric Adams, who are weakened by ongoing corruption scandals and perceived Trump ties. Mamdani’s victory could reshape NYC’s political landscape, prioritising progressive policies.
