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NEW YORK: In a landmark victory, 34-year-old Zohran Mamdani — a democratic socialist and state legislator — has made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim, South Asian, and Africa-born mayor after defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a closely watched election.
The overall media called the mayoral race for Mamdani late Tuesday night, capping off months of intense campaigning that energized voters across the city. His win is being hailed as a turning point for progressive politics in the U.S., signaling a shift from traditional party leadership to a new generation of reform-driven leaders.
Mamdani’s campaign centered on housing affordability, economic justice, and equity — issues that resonated with working-class New Yorkers. Jubilant supporters filled Brooklyn’s Paramount Theatre to celebrate what many described as a new chapter for the city’s 8.4 million residents.
Cuomo, who ran as an independent after losing the Democratic primary, characterized the race as a battle between moderates and what he called the “radical left” within the Democratic Party. Despite his criticism, Mamdani’s call for inclusivity and transparency drew widespread support from diverse communities.
“He’s different, and he feels authentic,” said Lucy Cordero, a Bronx resident. “We need someone who understands what everyday people are going through.”
Even some former Cuomo supporters switched sides. “Mamdani might be more progressive than I am, but he’s honest and forward-looking,” said Alex Lawrence, a lawyer from Crown Heights. “He deserves the chance to lead.”
According to Mamdani’s campaign team, voter turnout reached record levels, driven largely by engagement from Muslim, immigrant, and South Asian communities. “This is the outcome of a year-long grassroots movement,” said campaign press secretary Dora Pekec. “We’ve brought new voices into the political process.”
While New York’s election drew global headlines, Democrats also notched significant victories in several states, marking the first major electoral test of President Donald Trump’s second term.
Virginia: Abigail Spanberger is set to become the state’s first female governor after defeating Republican Winsome Earle-Sears.
New Jersey: Mikie Sherrill won the governor’s race, defeating Trump-backed Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
Pennsylvania: Democrat Corey O’Connor is projected to secure the Pittsburgh mayoral seat.
Ohio: Cincinnati’s incumbent mayor, Aftab Pureval, is on track to win re-election.
Massachusetts: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is poised for a second term, running unopposed.
Georgia: Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has been re-elected with a comfortable margin.
In another groundbreaking result, Ghazala Hashmi is projected to become Virginia’s next lieutenant governor — the first Muslim and Indian American to win a statewide office in the southern state.
Hashmi’s victory also marks the first time in U.S. history that a Muslim woman has been elected to statewide office. Civil rights organizations hailed the milestone as a major step forward for representation.
“Congratulations to Ghazala Hashmi on her historic win — it’s a proud moment for Virginia and for all who believe in an inclusive America,” said Nihad Awad, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
Together, the victories of Mamdani and Hashmi underscore a broader transformation in American politics — one that reflects the growing influence of diversity, grassroots activism, and progressive ideals across the nation.
Read more:https://nayakashmir.com/finance-minister-terms-blue-economy-a-game-changer-targets-100bn-by-2047/
