Democrat Zohran Mamdani has made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim and youngest mayor in more than 100 years, defeating Republican Curtis Sliwa and Independent Andrew Cuomo in a landmark election that signals a new political direction for America’s largest city.

According to official results from the New York City Board of Elections, Mamdani, 34, secured 50.4% of the vote, while former Governor Andrew Cuomo garnered 41.3%. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa trailed in third place. Mamdani is set to assume office on January 1, ushering in a new era of progressive leadership in the city.

Currently serving in the New York State Assembly, Mamdani is a member of the Democratic Socialist Movement and has been a prominent voice for affordable housing, economic justice, and immigrant rights. His outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump’s policies and his grassroots campaign — powered largely by youth and minority voters — helped deliver a decisive victory in an election with the highest voter turnout in decades, surpassing two million votes, according to the Associated Press, CNN, and Bloomberg.

“This victory belongs to the people of New York — to the workers, the tenants, the youth, and the communities that believed change was possible,” Mamdani said in his victory address to supporters in Queens. “We have proven that hope can win over fear, and solidarity can triumph over division.”

The Democratic Party also celebrated two major gubernatorial wins on election night, signaling nationwide momentum for progressive candidates.

In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger made history as the state’s first female governor, defeating Republican Winsom Earle-Sears with approximately 55.8% of the vote to her opponent’s 43.9%. Spanberger’s campaign emphasized bipartisanship, healthcare access, and education reform.

In New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill, a former U.S. Navy pilot and member of the House of Representatives, won the governorship after defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli, who had been backed by former President Trump. Sherrill’s platform focused on infrastructure improvement, reducing the cost of living, and increasing transparency in government.

Reacting to the night’s results, former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, attributing the Republican losses to his absence from the ballot and the recent government shutdown. “When my name is not there, enthusiasm fades,” he wrote, defending the party’s setbacks as circumstantial rather than ideological.

Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, addressed his supporters after the results, acknowledging defeat but promising continued activism.

“We don’t have a price. You can’t buy us, rent us, lease us — we are not for sale. We are the people,” Sliwa declared.

While calling the outcome a “setback,” Sliwa praised voter participation and ruled out another run for mayor. However, he issued a stern warning to the incoming administration: “If you try to implement socialism, if you weaken our police and endanger public safety, we will organize and mobilize. We will be your fiercest opposition.”

Mamdani’s election represents a generational and cultural shift in New York City politics. The son of Ugandan Indian immigrants, Mamdani’s victory reflects the growing political influence of the city’s Muslim and immigrant communities. His win also underscores the rising appeal of progressive and socialist platforms among younger voters seeking economic and social reform.

As he prepares to take office, Mamdani faces high expectations to deliver on his campaign promises — including expanding affordable housing, tackling inequality, and strengthening public services — while managing the city’s complex challenges of safety, homelessness, and economic recovery.

“Our campaign was about reimagining what’s possible in this city,” Mamdani told supporters. “Now begins the real work — building a New York that belongs to everyone.” (ILKHA)