Zohran's Victory, Democratic Party Leaders, and AIPAC

Shamsi Ali Al-Nuyorki* 

Zohran Mamdani's surprising win in the New York City Democratic primary has sparked controversy, particularly among conservative critics and Donald Trump. As a progressive candidate, Mamdani's platform includes ambitious but well calculated initiatives such as free and faster city buses, rent freezes, and governmental funded groceries, and more. His Victory with 43.51% of the vote over his main political opponent, Andrew Cuomo, and most likely his win in the upcoming  New York City mayoral election, will be recorded as a historic milestone in many ways. 

It is surprising to many, Mamdani’s triumph marks the largest victory in New York City's primary election history. He successfully drew in citizens to participate in the election, resulting in the highest voter turnout in the city's electoral history. This is a remarkable feat in New York City's politics.

This reality is supposedly be admitted as a source of pride for America, particularly New York City, and serve as a crucial moment to revitalize the country's political enthusiasm, which has drastically waned since Donald Trump's re-election. More importantly, for the Democratic Party, especially for those in leadership position, should seize this momentum as an opportunity for resurgence after their defeat in the executive (White House) and legislative branches (senate and congress). 

Zohran's significant victory is truly a good opportunity for Democrats to regain momentum and win the midterm elections this year. For the Democratic Party, winning the Senate and Congressional midterm elections is crucial, given the current political landscape with Donald Trump in the White House and Republican dominance in Congress. The policies implemented by the US government have been unfavorable to ordinary Americans, particularly in immigration and budget allocation, which have long been detrimental to marginalized communities.

Sadly and deeply disappointing, till now some Democratic leaders have not yet to fully support and endorse Zohran Mamdani, despite his official nomination as the party's candidate for the upcoming mayoral election. Two other candidates, Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams, although known as Democratic cadres, have decided to run as independent candidates against the party's nominee. Logically, they should be viewed as opponents and party traitors by Democratic politicians and leaders. Unfortunately, some have instead shown support for the opponents of their own party’s candidate (Zohran Mamdani). 

What is really the reasons behind the stance of some Democratic Party leaders? 

There are many hypotheses regarding their stand. But two primary factors to mention contribute to the party leaders' reluctance to support and endorse Zohran Mamdani. 

First, Mamdani’s Religious Background. Mamdani proudly declared himself the first Muslim mayoral candidate in New York City's history. His victory sparked Islamophobic attacks, drawing comparisons to post-9/11 anti-Islam sentiments. This is unfortunate, that political identity is still blinded some in time they claim to be upholding universal values; notably equal opportunity and justice for all.

Second, Mamdani’s Pro-Palestinian Stance. Mamdani's stand on the Israeli-Palestinian issue, particularly regarding genocide and mass killing in Gaza, is rooted in his humanitarian values and his consistency on universal peace and justice. However, he's been labeled anti-Semitic and anti-Jewish, despite opposing only Zionist Israel's occupation and inhumane treatment of Palestinians.

Mamdani’s religious affiliation and his stance on Palestine directly contradict the interests of AIPAC, America's most influential political lobby. Many Democratic politicians and leaders who refuse to support Mamdani have likely been swayed by substantial political donations from Zionist lobby groups in the US. Most politicians have been bought by AIPAC to support Zionist Israeli interests, even when it compromises American interests.

In conclusion, the reluctance of party leaders to support Zohran is due to AIPAC's funding. However, will this benefit America, especially the Democratic Party? I'm certain that with the significant shift in views on the Palestine-Israel issue among young people and millennials in America, it will ultimately be detrimental. If party leaders continue to prioritize AIPAC's interests over the interests of New York City's residents, they'll regret it and might lose their seats in future elections. 

Therefore, I call upon the Democratic leaders to prioritize New York City's and the party's interests over Zionist lobby’s interests. Keep aside the ego and narrow interests and endorse Zohran for the larger interest of the party and New Yorkers.

Jamaica Hills, 19 July 2025 

*A Proud New Yorker