Zohran Mamdani Leads NYC Mayoral Primary as Cuomo Concedes in Stunning Political Twist
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary to 33-year-old state Assembly member Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday night, as Mamdani took a significant lead with more than 80% of ballots counted.
Although the final outcome will be determined through ranked choice voting — as no candidate won an outright majority — Cuomo acknowledged Mamdani's edge, telling supporters, “Tonight is his night.” He added that his team would "take a look and make some decisions" in the coming days.
If elected, Mamdani would become the city’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor. A democratic socialist, Mamdani has surged ahead in a race that’s widely seen as a referendum on the direction of the Democratic Party during President Donald Trump’s second term.
Cuomo, 67, entered the race attempting a political comeback after resigning as governor in 2021 amid a sexual harassment scandal. Despite his scandal-scarred past, Cuomo was viewed as a frontrunner thanks to his name recognition, political clout, and fundraising prowess. Meanwhile, incumbent Mayor Eric Adams opted to skip the primary, instead running as an independent following the collapse of a corruption case against him.
Mamdani, a relatively unknown state legislator when the campaign began, gained momentum by focusing sharply on New York’s soaring cost of living. Backed by progressive icons Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, his campaign energized younger voters with promises of free public buses, universal childcare, affordable housing, and a higher minimum wage — all funded through increased taxes on the wealthy.
Tuesday’s primary turned into a battle between a youthful progressive and a seasoned moderate, reflecting the broader ideological divide in the Democratic Party. The race could also shape the party’s response to Trump-era politics and policies.
Despite his deep experience, Cuomo was sharply criticized for his past conduct and political decisions. Mamdani repeatedly slammed him for the sexual harassment allegations and for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic. In a particularly heated debate, Cuomo listed Mamdani’s alleged lack of managerial experience — pointing out his lack of federal or union dealings and absence from infrastructure work — claiming Mamdani couldn't stand up to Trump.
Cuomo resigned in 2021 after a state attorney general’s report found that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women. While Cuomo maintains he didn’t intentionally harass anyone, he has lately framed the situation as a politically motivated attack orchestrated by rivals.
Cuomo’s criticisms of Mamdani also included accusations of being unqualified and controversial, citing Mamdani’s vocal support for Palestinian human rights. However, this didn't slow the progressive candidate’s surge.
On the ground, Mamdani's campaign has displayed striking energy. In Central Brooklyn, supporters threw an impromptu celebration as polls closed. Young canvassers flooded neighborhoods, posters of Mamdani’s smiling face lined shop windows, and social media was filled with slick videos promoting his message.
“It’s 100 degrees outside and it’s a vibe,” said Amani Kojo, a 23-year-old first-time voter, handing out iced tea to volunteers. “New York City feels alive again.”
The winner of the primary will face Adams, now an independent, in the general election. Also on the November ballot is Republican Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels. While Cuomo has conceded the primary, he could still run as an independent, potentially complicating the general election landscape.
The rest of the Democratic field struggled to gain traction. City Comptroller Brad Lander made headlines after being arrested during an immigration protest but has lagged in polling. Other candidates — including City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, state Senator Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson, and former Comptroller Scott Stringer — failed to break through.
With Mamdani’s grassroots momentum and Cuomo’s uncertain next move, New York’s mayoral race has become a pivotal national story — one that may offer a glimpse into the future of the Democratic Party.
