AOC endorses Mamdani in NYC mayoral race against front-runner Cuomo

Progressive firebrand Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has officially thrown her support behind New York State assemblyman Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic mayoral race in New York City. This endorsement comes as a strategic move to consolidate progressive voters behind a single candidate and block the more moderate frontrunner, former New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani, a rising star in the race, has been gaining momentum in recent polls and is now positioned as the main challenger to Cuomo. Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement of Mamdani underscores her commitment to supporting candidates who champion working-class issues and diversity. Mamdani, a person of color and a democratic socialist originally from Uganda, aligns closely with Ocasio-Cortez’s progressive values.

In a statement following the endorsement, Mamdani expressed his gratitude for Ocasio-Cortez’s support and vowed to continue the fight for working people in New York City. He outlined his platform, which includes making city buses free, freezing rent increases on rent-stabilized apartments, and opening city-run grocery stores. To fund these initiatives, Mamdani proposes a $10 billion tax hike on businesses and the ultra-wealthy.

The timing of Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement, just days before early voting begins on June 14, is significant. It comes on the heels of the first Democratic mayoral primary debate, where candidates clashed over key issues facing the city. Mamdani and his rivals took aim at Cuomo, who positioned himself as a moderate candidate with experience, while Mamdani positioned himself as a bold progressive voice for change.

With Cuomo’s poll numbers on the decline and the landscape of the race shifting, Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement of Mamdani could be a game-changer. In a city known for its progressive politics, Mamdani’s platform and vision resonate with many voters who are eager for bold, progressive leadership.

As the mayoral race heats up and the primary approaches, the endorsement from Ocasio-Cortez adds a new dynamic to the race. With Mamdani gaining momentum and support from influential figures like Ocasio-Cortez, the race for New York City’s next mayor is shaping up to be a closely watched and fiercely contested battle.