In a dramatic political upset, Ugandan-born Zohran Mamdani has defeated former New York governor Andrew Cuomo to secure the Democratic nomination for New York City’s mayoral race.

The announcement followed Wednesday’s release of the final ranked-choice voting results, marking a defining moment for the 33-year-old progressive who was once seen as a long shot in the race.

Zohran, who currently serves in the New York State Assembly, centred his campaign on bold economic reforms and stronger public services.

His platform included rent freezes, city-run grocery stores, free public bus transport, and publicly funded childcare — proposals aimed at addressing the city’s rising cost of living.

Born in Kampala, Uganda, Zohran moved to New York City as a child.

He is the son of acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and renowned academic Mahmood Mamdani. If elected in November, he would become New York City's first Muslim and first Indian-American mayor.

Zohran’s campaign gained momentum in recent weeks through an aggressive grassroots strategy that included door-to-door outreach, digital organising, and targeted mobilisation of younger voters.

Despite Cuomo’s early lead and the heavy financial backing he received, Mamdani said his team successfully narrowed “a 40-point gap with Cuomo down to single digits despite Republican billionaires spending close to $20 million in attack ads.”

His candidacy drew high-profile support from national progressive figures. US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez endorsed him early, calling him “the strongest to lead the pack,” while Senator Bernie Sanders described his leadership as “visionary.”

Food and housing remained central to his campaign messaging. In an interview with Bon Appétit, he linked access to food with human dignity, saying, “Roti and roses. There is no life without food. Food is non-negotiable.” His proposal for a municipal food programme, including publicly operated grocery stores, was part of his broader strategy to combat food insecurity in the city.

Despite criticism from some Democrats over his relatively short legislative track record — having served in the state assembly since 2021 with just three bills passed — Zohran defended his qualifications. “Leadership should be measured by policy commitment and public accountability,” he said.

His personal journey, from community organiser and brief stint as a rapper known as “Mr Cardamom,” to legislator and now Democratic mayoral nominee, struck a chord with diverse voting blocs.

Exit polls showed strong backing from young people, public transit users, and renters — demographics most affected by economic strain and lack of access to essential city services.

While his critics questioned his readiness for executive leadership, Zohran’s campaign insists the focus will remain on affordability, inclusion, and expanding essential services ahead of the general election in November, where he is expected to face a Republican challenger yet to be named.

Addressing supporters on election night, Zohran said: “This is not just a win for me. It’s a win for everyone who believes that New York City can be for the many, not the few.”