Zohran Mamdani Defeats Cuomo in Stunning NYC Mayoral Primary Upset

In a major political upset, Queens Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani has secured a decisive lead in the Democratic mayoral primary, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the first round of ranked-choice voting.

With 95% of precincts reporting, Mamdani received 44% of first-choice votes, followed by Cuomo with 36%, and City Comptroller Brad Lander with 11%. The victory marks a dramatic shift in the city’s political landscape, as Mamdani — a 33-year-old democratic socialist — rode a wave of support from young, immigrant, and working-class voters.

“Today, eight months after launching this campaign with the vision of a city that every New Yorker could afford, we have won,” Mamdani declared to roaring cheers at a rooftop celebration in Long Island City just after midnight.

Despite Cuomo’s name recognition and heavy campaign spending, Mamdani’s grassroots movement proved more effective, especially with backing from progressive groups and a strong ground campaign across the boroughs. Cuomo conceded the race Tuesday night but is expected to continue in the general election under an independent ticket.

Lander, who endorsed Mamdani as his second choice, told supporters, “Together, we are sending Andrew Cuomo back to the suburbs.”

The official final results, including later rounds of ranked-choice tabulation, are expected by mid-July. Meanwhile, Mamdani’s historic win is already being hailed as a breakthrough for New York’s Muslim, South Asian, and progressive communities.