Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected and first Muslim mayor of New York City, delivered a powerful victory speech on Tuesday night, declaring that his campaign had “overthrown a political monarchy.”
The 34-year-old Democratic socialist thanked supporters and vowed to make New York a city for everyone — free from inequality and Islamophobia.
Standing before a cheering crowd, Mamdani said the people of New York had voted for change and a “mandate for a politics that is for everyone.” He emphasized that the future of the city now lies in the hands of its residents, marking the end of what he called “traditional politics that benefited the few.”
He thanked his opponent Andrew Cuomo, wishing him well in private life, but asserted, “Tonight, I am taking his name for the last time, because we are saying goodbye to a politics that benefits only a few.”
“This city belongs to everyone”
In a speech filled with emotion and symbolism, Mamdani said, “One million Muslims should consider themselves part of this city — there is no room for Islamophobia in New York.” He recited verses from the Holy Quran during his address, drawing applause from a diverse crowd of supporters.
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“The people of New York have proven that power is in their hands,” he said. “We will not allow the people to be divided. This city is yours, democracy is yours.”
Message to Trump and his critics
In a fiery moment that captured national attention, Mamdani referenced U.S. President Donald Trump directly, saying, “I know Trump is watching my speech — make it louder. Listen, Trump, New York is and will remain a city of the people.”
His remarks were met with thunderous applause as he declared that the era of fear and division was over, replaced by unity and progressive change.
Gratitude to supporters and working class
Expressing gratitude to his campaign team, Mamdani thanked more than 1,000 volunteers, as well as the taxi drivers, nurses, and working-class citizens who stood by him. “My victory is the people’s victory,” he said. “We will fight for you because we are one of you.”
He reaffirmed his vision of making New York a city where the working class can live and thrive, pledging to focus on affordability, equality, and representation for all.
Concluding his speech, Mamdani announced, “On January 1, I will be sworn in as the Mayor of New York City.” Supporters erupted in chants and applause as he promised to “make a new beginning” for the city.
“We are entering a new era of leadership,” he said. “Let’s make New York a place where everyone — regardless of faith, race, or class — feels at home.”
