Indian-origin politician Zohran Mamdani — son of acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair and Indian-born Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani — has made headlines after winning the Democratic primary for the mayoral race in New York City, drawing strong reactions from across the political spectrum in the United States.
US President Donald Trump sharply criticised Mamdani, calling him a “100 percent Communist lunatic” in a series of posts on his Truth Social platform.
Trump also attacked progressive leaders who support Mamdani, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Chuck Schumer. The remarks came after former New York governor Andrew Cuomo conceded the primary race.
“It’s finally happened, the Democrats have crossed the line. Zohran Mamdani, a 100% Communist Lunatic, has just won the Dem Primary, and is on his way to becoming Mayor,” part of Trump’s post on Truth Social read.
“We’ve had Radical Lefties before, but this is getting a little ridiculous. He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart, he’s got AOC+3, Dummies ALL, backing him, and even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is groveling over him. Yes, this is a big moment in the History of our Country!” the POTUS said.
Mamdani, who is currently serving as a New York state assemblyman representing Queens, secured 43.5 percent of the vote, with 90 percent of ballots counted. If he wins the final election, Mamdani would become the first Muslim mayor of New York City.
Known for his left-leaning politics, he is affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, a group often seen as too radical by more centrist members of the Democratic Party.
Mamdani’s platform includes proposals such as freezing rent for many New Yorkers, introducing free bus services, and providing universal childcare.
These ideas have gained attention in a city where housing costs are among the highest in the country. His outspoken support for Palestinian rights and criticism of Israel’s policies have also brought him into the spotlight, especially among conservative figures like Trump.
Mamdani’s campaign has received strong backing from well-known progressive figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
As the mayoral race moves towards the general election, his win in the primary is seen as a significant moment for the progressive movement within the Democratic Party.
