“Indeed, New York will remain a city of immigrants. A city built by immigrants, a city powered by immigrants, and as of tonight, a city led by an immigrant. So, hear me, President Trump, when I say this, to get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us.”

These were the words uttered by New York Mayor Elect Zohran Mamdani at the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre on Tuesday — immediately after a sizable win over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa.

Such a loud and clear message goes beyond the mere meaning expressed by stretches of words, and signifies the deeper connotations that helped to mobilise not only Muslim and South Asian immigrants but also young and progressive Jews living in New York for years. 

With his outspoken criticism of Israel, Mamdani might seem like an unlikely candidate to win support from Jewish voters in a city with the world’s largest Jewish population. But a significant portion of New Yorkers, especially young and progressive Jews, have also supported him in the mayoral race, attracted by his youthfulness and social justice.

During the initial days of the campaigning, it became clear that Mamdani, unlike most democrats, is following a different playbook. During the campaigning days, his ideals and proposals garnered much attention not because of his energetic presence but because of his completely unique style to identify himself with the pressing issues and afflictions of the common New Yorkers.

His campaign zeroed in on diversified issues that are somehow taking a toll on the New Yorkers including the pain points faced by immigrants and Muslims. The biggest problem locals are facing now is affordability in the face of rising living costs. Mamdani did not forget to address that.

The people of New York City have strongly supported Mamdani.

Because he has been able to identify the common problems of New York city and address those in his election pledges. His proposals, including stabilising rents, free bus transportation, and expanding child care, have been applauded.

Apart from this, Mamdani has exhibited a superb level of dexterity while interacting with the ordinary voters. No wonder he has fondly been called the ‘favourite candidate of the Bangali aunties’.

During the campaign, he has created a sense of belonging among people belonging to all echelons of the New York society, piquing interest even among the conservatives and the staunch Republican supporters.

The attitude of moving ahead with everyone in tow has finally paid off as the campaign crescendoed on Tuesday with a thumping victory.

The stats speak for itself. Owing to a shared sense of belonging perpetuated by Mamdani, South Asian communities mobilised in large numbers during the campaign.

The outcome was evident as South Asian voter turnout in the 2025 NYC primary election increased by about 40% compared to the 2021 primary, according to data published in different US newspapers. 

Now that the results are already out, the bigger question is what kind of changes we might see in the polity of the Big Apple in the coming days? Also, what is the message Democrats can take from Mamdani’s victory? And will this victory finally bring good luck for Muslim and South Asian migrants?

As far as politics is concerned, Mamdani’s victory has shown a way forward for the democrats who have been struggling to strike the right chord with the citizens and immigrants. A key takeaway for the democrats could be the belief that identity-based politics no longer enjoys the upper hand, rather it is more important to accept a diversity of views.

On the other hand, this victory is a bellwether for a new beginning. This campaign has awakened something powerful in New York’s South Asian and Muslim communities, and sparked a great deal of interest among them about participation in politics.

For years, South Asian and Arab Muslims in the U.S., many of whom immigrated post-1965, have refrained themselves from investing time in politics as they always felt secluded. Mamdani has proved otherwise by actively engaging with them. From this point, things might turn out different and turn the tide on immigrants and Muslims.

Mamdani’s rise reflects a generational shift in New York politics. It’s now time to carry this forward. From Uganda to New York city, now it’s time to see how long Mamdani can stay true to his charisma and promises.