Mamdani Says He’s on the Verge of Making History After NY Mayor Vote

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Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic hopeful for New York City mayor, cast his vote Tuesday at a polling station inside the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School in Astoria, Queens. As he approached the polls, Mamdani, 34, expressed optimism about his chances and believed the city was “on the cusp of making history,” signaling a shift away from the traditional political establishment he described as “the politics of the past.”

Outside the polling location, Mamdani told reporters, “We are on the verge of transforming our city; it’s time to say farewell to an old way of politics. I see this victory as a clear mandate from the people.” Voting hours started at 6 a.m. and will end at 9 p.m., with early voting surpassing 735,000 ballots—a record high—according to election officials.

Polls indicate Mamdani leads at approximately 44%, well ahead of others, including former governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent after losing to Mamdani in the primary. Meanwhile, Republican Curtis Sliwa, 71, trails significantly in most polls, which favor Mamdani comfortably.

The campaign has escalated into national politics, with recent statements from President Trump uncharacteristically deepening the controversy. The former president falsely accused Mamdani, who would be New York’s first Muslim mayor, of being a “Jew hater,” and threatened to block federal funding if Mamdani wins.

Mamdani responded fiercely, stating, “I will not be intimidated by Donald Trump or anyone else. The notion that the president controls federal funding for this city is false. I will use every tool at my disposal to serve the people of New York.”

Despite some polls suggesting a tight race or that he may lack majority support, Mamdani remained confident, asserting, “Victory itself is a mandate.”

Voters expressed their support for Mamdani. Gregory Jones, 36, from Manhattan, said, “I voted for Mamdani because he’s new, fresh, and I believe he can make a real difference. We need a mayor who represents all New Yorkers and helps everyone thrive.” Lucy Cordero, 68, from Mott Haven in the Bronx, shared, “I voted for him because I hope he can change things for the better.” Physiotherapist Denise Gibbs, 46, who cast her ballot in Brooklyn, added, “I want the city to improve—less division, more support for working families, and better services for kids.”