It’s official — Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York City, making history as a progressive voice and longtime LGBTQ+ ally. The 34-year-old Democratic socialist defeated former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa after a grassroots campaign driven by young voters. The Associated Press called the election in Mamdani’s favor shortly after 9:30 PM Tuesday. Mamdani’s platform focused on affordability and equality, from free buses and universal child care to a rent freeze and city-owned grocery stores.
His promises to LGBTQ+ New Yorkers include expanding gender-affirming care with a $65 million investment, creating an Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs, and strengthening sanctuary protections for queer and trans residents. As a state representative, Mamdani backed the repeal of the “Walking While Trans” law, cosponsored the Gender Recognition Act, and voted for New York’s shield law protecting access to gender-affirming care. The big question on yesterday’s elections is what does the NYC Mayor and elections in Virginia, New Jersey and California forecast for next Fall vitally important midterm elections?
