– Atoofa Nasiha
In September 2025, New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani was at the centre of heated debates and bold declarations. From skipping debates to challenging U.S. President Donald Trump, his campaign has gained momentum and controversy in equal measure. Here is a look at the recent developments surrounding his bid for City Hall.
Skipping the “Televised Circus”
Mamdani announced that he will not participate in any unofficial debates, calling them a “televised circus.” Instead, he said he would attend only the two official debates scheduled for October. To connect with voters, Mamdani explained that his focus will be on hosting town halls across the city, particularly in neighbourhoods struggling with affordability. This strategy reflects his effort to bypass traditional political theatre and speak directly with New Yorkers.
(AP News, September 3, 2025)
Commitment to His Agenda Regardless of Vote Share
During a CNN interview on September 5, 2025, Mamdani emphasised that he would follow through on his campaign promises even if less than half of New Yorkers voted for him. He said, “If two-thirds of New Yorkers vote against me, but I still win, then I will do what I promised because that is the responsibility of a public servant.”
He defended this stance by pointing to increased youth voter turnout as evidence of a mandate for his progressive policies. These proposals include raising taxes on millionaires and corporations to fund public services.
(New York Post, September 6, 2025)
A Direct Challenge to Trump
Mamdani issued a bold challenge to President Donald Trump. He called for a televised debate, accusing Trump of interfering in the New York City mayoral race. Mamdani said this would “cut out the middle man” and allow him to confront Trump directly. This move highlighted his willingness to take on powerful figures beyond the city’s borders in defence of his campaign’s independence.
(Times of India, September 5, 2025)
No More Donations, Only Volunteers Needed
On September 5, 2025, Zohran Mamdani posted a video on Instagram urging supporters to “stop sending us money” and instead dedicate their time to building “the single largest volunteer operation in New York City history.” He emphasised that the campaign had reached its fundraising cap, highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement.
(Instagram, September 5, 2025)
This approach underscores Mamdani’s commitment to community-driven campaigns and his belief in the power of collective action over financial contributions
Rivals Consolidate, But Mamdani Holds Ground
The independent candidate Jim Walden withdrew from the race, warning that Mamdani represented a “Trojan Horse” for radical change. Walden urged other candidates, including Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomo, to consolidate support against Mamdani. So far, neither Adams nor Cuomo has followed that advice. Mamdani’s campaign responded by emphasising the contrast between his grassroots support and his rivals’ connections to wealthy donors and elites.
(AP News, September 3, 2025)
Standing with Sanders and Defying Pressure
In the Labour Day Parade alongside Senator Bernie Sanders, Mamdani refused to denounce a controversial Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) resolution that requires strict anti-Zionist positions from its members. Instead, he redirected the focus, stressing that his campaign was about addressing New Yorkers’ pressing needs such as housing and wages. He also criticised political interference from figures like President Trump, saying that if working with him helped the city, he would not close the door to cooperation.
(New York Post, September 6, 2025)
Cuomo’s Charter School Stance Highlights Policy Divide
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has re-emerged in the campaign, now vocally supporting charter schools which is a clear contrast with Mamdani’s position. Mamdani opposes charter expansion, highlighting a sharp education policy divide in the race.
(New York Post, September 5, 2025)
Bill de Blasio Throws Support Behind Mamdani
On September 2, 2025, former Mayor Bill de Blasio endorsed Mamdani, praising his progressive agenda on rent freezes, free childcare, and public transit. De Blasio asserted, “We need him because in his heart and in his bones he cannot accept a city that prices out the people who built it and keep it running.”
(New York Post, September 2, 2025)
Bronx Democratic Party Backs Mamdani
In a rare show of organised support, Bronx Democrats officially endorsed Mamdani on September 2, despite Andrew Cuomo having won the borough in the primary. State Sen. Jamaal T. Bailey said Mamdani offered “new, fresh ideas, bold ideas, boundless energy.” Mamdani expressed pride, saying, “I am proud of the nearly 600,000 New Yorkers who voted for our campaign in the primary. I am looking, however, to be a mayor for the eight and a half million people that call this city home.”
(Bronx Times, September 2, 2025)
Political Heavyweights Joining the Campaign
The campaign team has grown, with two former de Blasio administration officials stepping in:
Elana Leopold joined as senior adviser to help build bridges with civic and business leaders.
Louise Yeung, formerly a city climate officer, is now campaign policy director. Their additions aim to broaden Mamdani’s coalition beyond grassroots organising.
(City & State NY, September 5, 2025)
Endorsement from an Influential State Senator
State Senator Liz Krueger, who represents a district that largely supported Cuomo in the primary, endorsed Mamdani on September 4. She praised his willingness to “stand up for all New Yorkers” and encouraged others to keep an open mind about his candidacy.
(NBC New York, September 5, 2025)
Trump Predicts Mamdani May Be NYC’s Next Mayor
President Trump stated on September 4 that he believes Mamdani is poised to win the mayor’s race provided at least two of his major opponents exit the contest. Trump termed a “one-on-one” scenario as the only viable model for defeating Mamdani.
(Associated Press, September 4, 2025)
