New Yorkers expected to pick Mamdani in stunning election

In a groundbreaking development, New Yorkers are projected to elect Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist, as their next mayor. This election, held on November 4, 2025, marks a significant shift in the political landscape, particularly as it signals a resurgence of the Democratic opposition ahead of the crucial midterm elections next year. Mamdani’s campaign, focused on reducing living costs for ordinary citizens, has resonated strongly with voters, as evidenced by his seven-point lead in the latest AtlasIntel poll, where he garnered 41% of the vote. His closest competitors, former state governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa, trailed with 34% and 24%, respectively. The election has also drawn national attention, with President Donald Trump threatening to withhold federal funds from the city if Mamdani wins. Mamdani’s potential victory would make him New York’s first Muslim mayor, a milestone that has sparked both celebration and controversy. The race has centered on key issues such as the cost of living, crime, and the city’s relationship with the Trump administration. Meanwhile, off-year gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey are being closely watched as barometers of the national political mood. Democratic candidates in these states, Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger, are locked in tight races against their Republican opponents, with both sides receiving high-profile endorsements. Former President Barack Obama rallied support for the Democratic candidates but refrained from endorsing Mamdani, reflecting the ongoing internal debate within the party about its future direction. The outcomes of these elections could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in Congress and the broader political trajectory of the United States.