Obama Praises Zohran Mamdani Ahead of New York Mayoral Election

Former President Barack Obama called New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani on Saturday, offering support and serving as a “sounding board” if Mamdani wins the November 4 election. Obama also praised Mamdani’s campaign efforts, according to Mamdani’s spokesperson, Dora Pekec.

Mamdani, a 34-year-old Uganda-born state assembly member, has been leading in polls against his main rival, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa is also in the race.

Mamdani gained national attention with his June primary victory and has since received endorsements from prominent Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, along with strong support from small donors.

His platform includes raising taxes on the city’s wealthiest residents, increasing the corporation tax, freezing stabilized apartment rents, and expanding publicly subsidized housing. While these policies appeal to young and progressive voters, they have raised concerns in the finance sector about the city’s competitiveness.

Mamdani’s candidacy represents both opportunities and risks for the Democratic Party nationally. His progressive stance and criticism of Israel have drawn scrutiny, even as the party seeks to energize younger voters.

Over the weekend, Obama also campaigned for Democratic gubernatorial candidates in New Jersey and Virginia, attending rallies with Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger.