The world beyond New York joined New Yorkers in celebration on Wednesday, as Zohran Mamdani’s historic mayoral campaign culminated in a resounding victory.
The 34-year-old democratic socialist made history by becoming the first Muslim mayor of the largest US city, defeating Democratic former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Throughout his campaign, Mamdani faced harsh criticism from conservative media commentators and also from US President Donald Trump over his policies and Muslim heritage.
However, the fierce attacks on the young lawmaker appeared to have little impact on New Yorkers’ spirits, who erupted in celebration after he was declared mayor.
Prominent politicians from beyond the city, including former US President Bill Clinton, were among those who joined New Yorkers in their celebrations.
Taking to X, Clinton congratulated Mamdani on his victory, while wishing for his success in “building a better, fairer, more affordable New York”.
“Congratulations [Zohran Mamdani] on your election as the next Mayor of New York City. I’m wishing you success as you work to transform the passion of your campaign into building a better, fairer, more affordable New York,” the former US president wrote.
British politician Jeremy Corbyn, who is Member of Parliament for Islington North, credited Mamdani for igniting “a grassroots campaign.
“This is a seismic victory — not only for the people of New York, but for all those who believe that humanity and hope can prevail,” he wrote in his post on X.
California Governor Gavin Newsom termed the election result a “message to Donald Trump” that there will be “no crowns, no thrones, no kings”.
“Tonight, after poking the bear, this bear roared with an unprecedented turnout in a special election with an extraordinary result,” he said.
Mamdani’s election campaign and his triumph in the polls appeared to have also inspired other politicians to follow his footsteps.
Zack Polanski, leader of England’s Green Party, vowed to adopt “the same relentless focus on inequality” as Mamdani had, as per a report by BBC.
The victory also triggered hope for a political shift in Uganda, where Mamdani was born.
Joel Ssenyonyi, the opposition leader in the Ugandan Parliament, said that the Democratic socialist’s victory proved that an “inspiring political shift” was also possible in his home country, The Washington Post reported.
