US President Donald Trump strongly criticised Zohran Mamdani after the 33-year-old democratic socialist won the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Mamdani is “a 100 per cent Communist Lunatic.” He claimed the Democratic Party had “crossed the line.”
Moreover, Trump launched personal attacks. He wrote, “He looks terrible, his voice is annoying, he’s not very smart, and he’s backed by AOC and others who I call ‘Dummies’.”
He also mocked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Trump called him “Cryin’ Chuck” for supporting Mamdani.
Later, in another post, Trump said Democrats should pick Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett for President and give Cabinet roles to “AOC+3.” He added, “With Mamdani as our future Communist Mayor, the country is really screwed.”
Mamdani Wins Over Cuomo in Close Contest
On Tuesday night, Mamdani declared victory. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded shortly after. According to results, with 93% of votes counted, Mamdani led with 43.5%. Cuomo followed with 36.4%. Even though he lost, Cuomo praised Mamdani’s effort. He said the campaign was “smart, good, and impactful.”
Mamdani Focuses on Cost-of-Living Issues
Importantly, Mamdani’s campaign focused on public needs. He promised to freeze rent, provide free buses, and set up city-run grocery stores. To pay for this, he proposed a $10 billion tax increase on wealthy individuals and corporations.
Victory Sparks Rift Within Democratic Party
As a result of Mamdani’s win, the Democratic Party now faces internal tension. Two union leaders stepped down from the party’s leadership board.
Although Cuomo might run as an independent in the general election, Mamdani remains the top contender. This is due to the city’s strong Democratic base and Mayor Eric Adams’s poor approval ratings.
Since no one got more than 50% of the vote, the election will now go into second-choice ballot counting. Analysts believe this process will likely favour Mamdani.
Mamdani’s Bold Foreign Policy Positions
Meanwhile, Mamdani has also made headlines for his foreign policy views. He has strongly supported the Palestinian cause. As a result, many pro-Israel groups have criticised him.
In fact, Mamdani said he would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited New York. He referred to an ICC arrest warrant issued in late 2024. Additionally, Mamdani has shown support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. He backed it publicly during recent protests.
Supporters View Him as a Progressive Leader
Despite controversy, Mamdani’s supporters see him as a progressive force. They believe he can bring big changes to New York City’s government and policies.