The development has stunned many, as Cuomo had consistently led in opinion polls throughout the campaign.

Mamdani, who entered the race just eight months ago with little name recognition, declared victory overnight, prompting a concession from Cuomo. If confirmed, Mamdani would make history as the city’s first Muslim Mayor, a significant milestone in the politics of one of the world’s most influential cities.

Although the final outcome will only be confirmed once all votes are counted under the city’s ranked-choice voting system, Mamdani’s confident declaration and Cuomo’s concession signal a decisive shift in the Democratic landscape. Mamdani’s campaign, marked by an energetic and youthful presence, leveraged social media effectively to reach a wide base of support, particularly among young and progressive voters.

Running on a bold platform, Mamdani pledged to make city buses free, stabilise rents, and expand affordable housing through increased taxation on the city’s wealthiest residents. His message appears to have resonated with a growing demographic seeking radical reform in the city’s housing and public transport sectors.

His rise was further bolstered by high-profile endorsements from well-known progressive figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, both influential voices within the left of the Democratic Party.

On the Republican side, Curtis Silwa emerged as the winner of the primary. Meanwhile, the incumbent Mayor, Eric, a former Democrat currently facing multiple corruption allegations, is expected to run as an Independent in the forthcoming general election.

--Sherwin Bryce-Pease/ChannelAfrica--