UPDATE: In a stunning upset, Zohran Mamdani has emerged victorious in New York’s Democratic mayoral primary, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo by more than seven points. This victory, announced just hours ago, is being hailed as a significant win for pro-Palestine politics, challenging long-held assumptions about the electoral repercussions of supporting Palestinian rights.
Mamdani’s win comes at a pivotal moment, as 63% of Democratic voters recently expressed that the U.S. is “too supportive of Israel,” according to a Quinnipiac poll. Activists and writers assert that his vocal support for Palestine—including calls for boycotts and legislation against illegal Israeli settlements—was crucial to his campaign. In a city with the largest Jewish population in America, Mamdani defied expectations by garnering significant Jewish support.
“We saw a clear message last night,” stated Beth Miller, political director of Jewish Voice for Peace Action, in comments to Al Jazeera. “Cuomo believed Mamdani’s pro-Palestine stance would be a liability; instead, it proved to be an asset.”
Despite facing accusations of antisemitism from Cuomo’s camp, Mamdani remained steadfast in his beliefs, refusing to retract statements regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, which he described as “genocide.” This unwavering position resonated with a growing number of voters who are increasingly critical of U.S. foreign policy.
A May poll from Emerson College revealed that 46% of Democrats did not consider it important for the next mayor to hold pro-Israel views, illustrating a shift in voter attitudes. Mamdani’s alliance with key figures, including Comptroller Brad Lander, who endorsed him and helped counter the accusations from Cuomo, further solidified his standing.
Mamdani’s campaign was not merely a reaction to Israel’s policies but was built on a platform addressing local concerns. He focused on making New York a more affordable and equitable city for all residents, including Jewish New Yorkers. “We are dealing with the same material conditions that other New Yorkers are,” said Sophie Ellman-Golan, spokesperson for Jews for Racial and Economic Justice.
As Mamdani prepares for the general election, analysts are watching closely to see how his pro-Palestine stance will play out on a broader stage. His victory could signal a transformative moment for Democratic politics, challenging the traditional views on Israel and Palestine within the party.
The implications of Mamdani’s win extend beyond New York, potentially reshaping how candidates approach Middle Eastern politics in future elections. Stay tuned as this story develops and what it may mean for the future of progressive politics in America.
