Zohran Kwame Mamdani (born October 18, 1991) is an American politician and community organizer who has represented New York State Assembly District 36 (Astoria, Queens) since 2021. A member of the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America, he won the Democratic primary for the 2025 New York City mayoral election on 24 June 2025, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo in a ranked-choice contest. 

Early life and education

Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda, to filmmaker Mira Nair and scholar Mahmood Mamdani. He moved to New York City at age 7, attended the Bronx High School of Science, and earned a B.A. in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College in 2014. He became a U.S. citizen in 2018.

Early career

Before entering elected office, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure-prevention housing counselor in Queens, focusing on tenant rights and affordable-housing advocacy. 

New York State Assembly

In 2020 he unseated four-term incumbent Aravella Simotas in the Democratic primary and was elected unopposed that November. In the Assembly, Mamdani has championed bills on good-cause eviction, fare-free buses, and expanded public child-care. 

2025 mayoral campaign

Running on a platform of rent freezes, social housing, fare-free buses, and a $30 citywide minimum wage, Mamdani secured high-profile endorsements from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders. His grassroots campaign—relying on small-dollar donations—propelled him to a decisive primary victory over Cuomo, making him the first Muslim nominee of a major party for New York City mayor. 

Political positions

Mamdani identifies as a democratic socialist. He supports progressive taxation to fund social programs, robust tenant protections, and expanded public transit. His outspoken advocacy for Palestinian rights has drawn both national support and criticism.

Personal life

Mamdani resides in Astoria, Queens. He is Muslim and speaks English, Hindi, and some Luganda.