Unyielding, unapologetic: How Mamdani is altering US politics
By Nizamuddin Siddiqui
Supported by young voters and progressive elements, Mamdani’s NYC mayoral campaign signals a transformative shift in local and international politics
THE WORLDVIEW
Nov 2, 2025
JUST days before the crucial vote, Zohran Mamdani’s chances of becoming the next mayor of New York City (NYC) appear remarkably strong, according to credible polls and respected news sources. Various surveys show Mamdani leading decisively over his chief rivals — Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa.
A Quinnipiac University poll from late October 2025 places Mamdani with 43 to 45 per cent support, well ahead of Cuomo’s 23 to 28 per cent, while Republican Curtis Sliwa trails behind. Another Fox News poll reports Mamdani’s 16-point lead, though his margin has slightly narrowed since mid-October.
This Muslim candidate, with roots in a diverse South Asian and East African family, owes his resurgent popularity mainly to young voters and progressive elements attracted to his platform centred on affordable housing, climate policy, and public safety reforms. His support surged from about 18 per cent earlier this year to over 40 per cent recently. The enthusiasm of his backers eclipses that of the others — a crucial advantage as early voting unfolds.
Challenges remain, however. Despite his clear lead in polls, early voter turnout skewed older, allowing Cuomo some gains. There is also a divide between popular support for Mamdani and scepticism about his more progressive socialist policies.
Though not overtly devout, Mamdani’s Muslim identity remains a key facet of his public image and campaign. He frequently visits mosques and includes Muslim cultural elements, such as videos in Urdu, addressing concerns specific to Muslim communities. His origins span Uganda and South Asia through the Muslim diaspora.
His faith has attracted praise and Islamophobic attacks alike, yet Mamdani embraces it proudly, connecting with the city’s richly diverse population.
Since the tragic events of 7 October 2023, Mamdani has been fearless in his criticism of Israeli government policies. Unhesitatingly, he condemned what he calls a “genocidal war” against Palestinians in Gaza, mourning all casualties while criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration for apartheid and occupation.
His bold stance sparked fierce backlash from Israeli officials who labelled his words antisemitic propaganda. Mamdani, however, remained undeterred, linking local policing practices in New York to Israeli military tactics and positioning himself as a socialist committed to global solidarity — especially with Palestinians.
This outspoken posture, coupled with his socialist platform, strikes a chord with New Yorkers disillusioned by the influence of lobby groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), whose sway over American politics Mamdani openly challenges. His refusal to shy away from such contentious issues distinguishes him from many politicians.
Mamdani’s identity, policy vision, and fearless geopolitical commentary have propelled him to the forefront of the mayoral race. He energises young, progressive voters longing for radical reform and political renewal.
Not merely a municipal contest, this race holds profound international political significance. Mamdani’s anticipated victory would defy the entrenched control lobby groups hold over political discourse. It would be a historic breakthrough — the first Muslim mayor of New York City, and a symbol of inclusiveness and bold change.
Initially, this triumph may seem a mere crack in the formidable dominance of the Jewish lobby in US politics. Yet history teaches that even small fissures can herald transformative change, unraveling mighty structures built through vested interests.
Zohran Mamdani’s rise from grassroots activist to the cusp of New York’s highest office embodies a quest for justice and honest leadership. His journey is a story of identity and courage — a beacon of hope for many seeking change against great odds.