Zohran Mamdani Holds Early Lead in New York City Mayoral Race

Zohran Mamdani appears set to clinch the Democratic nomination for mayor following Andrew Cuomo’s concession Tuesday night, June 24th, as unofficial results show Mamdani leading with 43.5% of first-choice votes. With 95% of precincts reporting, Cuomo trails at 36.4%, and Comptroller Brad Lander sits at 11.3%. 

Although the ranked-choice process has not yet concluded, Cuomo acknowledged the likely outcome, stating that “Tonight is his night. He deserved it” and confirmed he had called to concede. 

Mamdani, 33, a Democratic Socialist and state assemblymember, ran a campaign centered on economic justice and public services. His proposals included freezing rent on stabilized units, making city buses free, and opening municipal grocery stores in food deserts. Backed by progressive leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, Mamdani’s campaign was powered by over 50,000 volunteers and a robust digital outreach strategy.

Cuomo launched his campaign with strong name recognition, endorsements from prominent allies such as former President Bill Clinton, and more than $25 million in support from super PACs. His team poured funds into negative ads targeting Mamdani, but the effort didn’t stop his decline in the polls. 

Lander, who backed Mamdani through a cross-endorsement, is expected to boost his standing as ranked-choice votes are tallied. On election night, Lander remarked that they were “sending Andrew Cuomo back to the suburbs,” signaling confidence in Mamdani’s lead.

The Board of Elections plans to release an initial ranked-choice tabulation by Tuesday, July 1st, with complete certification to follow once absentee and affidavit ballots are processed.

Despite conceding the Democratic primary, Cuomo and Mayor Eric Adams have filed to run as independents in the November general election.