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NEW YORK: Zohran Mamdani is set to become New York City’s next mayor after defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a stunning Democratic primary upset.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist and Queens assemblyman, surged to a commanding lead in Tuesday’s results. Although he fell just short of the 50% needed to win outright under the city’s ranked-choice system, Cuomo conceded and acknowledged Mamdani’s victory, BBC reported.
“Tonight is his night,” Cuomo said. “Zohran has won this race.”
Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, attempted a political comeback but failed to overcome Mamdani’s energized campaign and progressive base.
If elected in November, Mamdani will become the first Muslim and Indian American to lead the nation’s largest city. With Democrats dominating city politics, the primary all but ensures his victory in the general election.
Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, ran on bold proposals to overhaul housing, policing, and public transit. He mobilized a young, diverse coalition of voters across the five boroughs and reshaped the race.
Election officials will continue ranked-choice tabulations next week, but Mamdani’s lead appears decisive.
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