 "Zohran Mamdani's progressive platform has resonated with young and alienated voters. AP")
US President Donald Trump criticised Zohran Mamdani after the 33-year-old democratic socialist won New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump called Mamdani “a 100 per cent Communist Lunatic” and accused the Democratic Party of having “crossed the line.”
“He looks terrible, his voice is annoying, he’s not very smart, and he’s backed by AOC and others who I call ‘Dummies’,” Trump wrote. He also mocked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, calling him “Cryin’ Chuck” for supporting Mamdani.
In another post, Trump suggested Democrats should nominate Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett for President and give Cabinet roles to “AOC+3.” He added, “With Mamdani as our future Communist Mayor, the country is really screwed.”
Mamdani declared victory Tuesday night after Andrew Cuomo conceded. With 93 per cent of the votes counted, Mamdani led with 43.5 per cent, while Cuomo trailed at 36.4 per cent. Cuomo praised Mamdani’s campaign, calling it “smart, good, and impactful.”
Mamdani’s campaign focused on cost-of-living issues like freezing rent and expanding public services. His win has deepened divisions within the Democratic Party, with two union leaders stepping down from the party’s leadership board.
Although Cuomo may run as an independent in the general election, Mamdani is currently the favourite, given Mayor Eric Adams’s low approval ratings and the city’s strong Democratic lean.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsSince no candidate won more than 50 per cent of the vote, second-choice ballots will now be counted, a process expected to favour Mamdani.
Mamdani has represented Astoria, Queens, in the New York State Assembly since 2021. His mayoral platform includes plans for city-run grocery stores, free buses, and rent freezes—all to be funded by a proposed $10 billion tax increase on wealthy residents and corporations.
On foreign policy, Mamdani has taken a strong pro-Palestinian stance, drawing criticism from pro-Israel groups. He has said he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited New York, citing an ICC arrest warrant issued in late 2024. Mamdani has also supported the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement during recent protests.
Supporters see Mamdani as a bold and progressive voice for change in New York City.