The Democratic primary election to select the next leader of New York City, described with epithets such as 'the center of the world' and 'the city that never sleeps,' will be held on the 24th.
Early voting began on the 14th, igniting a battle of ideologies surrounding the future of New York.
This election represents the comeback of Andrew Cuomo (67), the former governor of New York who resigned in disgrace due to a sexual harassment scandal, and the test for 33-year-old 'socialist' sensation Zohran Mamdani, a council member from Queens.
Major U.S. media outlets cited local political experts on the 17th (local time), reporting that this election will be a turning point in deciding whether New York will adopt a more radical leftist stance or return to centrist pragmatism.
In the New York mayoral election, the Democratic primary election is essentially equivalent to the finals. With 7 out of 10 registered voters being Democrats, New York is a stronghold of progressive ideology.
Based on historical results from New York mayoral elections, it is almost certain that the candidate who wins the Democratic primary will defeat the Republican candidate in the general election on November 4.
In this Democratic primary for New York City mayor, a total of 11 candidates have emerged. Among them, the 'political heavyweight' Cuomo and the 'young rebel' Mamdani are the two candidates that have crystallized.
Andrew Cuomo is a political heavyweight who has served three terms as governor of New York. He gained national fame for his decisive leadership during the early stages of the pandemic. However, he stepped down from the governorship in 2021 due to a sexual harassment scandal. In this election, he presents himself as an 'experienced problem solver' seeking a comeback. His key pledges include curbing the rising crime rate in New York City and ensuring public safety.
In the latest poll, Cuomo still maintains the lead. According to a survey released by the conservative think tank Manhattan Institute on the 17th, Cuomo garnered 43% support, leading Mamdani (30%) by a margin of 13 percentage points. Notably, he received a strong 39% support among Black voters, who are particularly sensitive to crime issues.
Challenging his stronghold is Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old politician who grew up in a family of immigrants from Uganda. He describes himself as a 'democratic socialist.'
Mamdani's political experience pales in comparison to Cuomo's. He has served as a member of the New York State Assembly since 2021, emerging as a fresh face in the progressive camp. His campaign promises are striking, including 'rent freezes for all tenants,' 'making bus fares in New York City completely free,' and 'establishing a government-run grocery store.'
Mamdani is riding a wave of enthusiastic support from young people and progressive voters. Additionally, on the 17th, Bernie Sanders, a prominent figure in the Democratic progressive camp, announced his public support.
Sanders noted, "Right now, New York needs visionary leadership that has the courage to fight for the working class, rather than politicians who simply repeat the status quo," and praised Mamdani as "the candidate who embodies that spirit." Analysts suggest that Sanders' support could be a major variable that influences undecided voters as the election nears.
The New York mayoral position is considered 'the second toughest job in America' after the presidency. It manages a population of 8.5 million and the largest city budget in the world. As much as it has considerable power, it also holds significant political symbolism. The mayoral position in New York has historically been seen as a 'stepping stone' for rising national politicians.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was revered as 'America's mayor' for showcasing his crisis management skills during the 9/11 attacks. Michael Bloomberg, a billionaire media mogul, also leveraged his 12 years of experience as mayor to enter the Democratic presidential primary.
However, the spotlight also casts thick shadows. Bill de Blasio, the former mayor who advocated progressive policies, quietly exited after a term marked by conflicts with the police union. This serves as a reminder that the mayoral position is not a guaranteed ticket to political success but rather a poisoned chalice that can end political careers.
U.S. media have characterized this election as a crucial one that will determine the identity of New York.
If Cuomo wins, it would signify that voters have chosen his administrative experience and centrist pragmatism. Analysts suggest this could be a signal to strengthen the position of moderates within the party, driven by a desire to check the radical left forces within the Democratic Party.
Conversely, if Mamdani wins, it is expected to be recorded as a significant event that could reshape the political landscape of America. The symbolism of the largest city in America electing a socialist as mayor serves as a testament to the unstoppable trend of the Democratic Party's leftward shift.
Furthermore, predictions have emerged suggesting that this could serve as a strong focal point for the progressive camp opposing the Trump administration.