Former President Barack Obama reached out by phone on Saturday to New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, offering guidance should the 34-year-old win his race and expressing admiration for his efforts. A spokesperson for Mamdani verified the conversation, which was initially disclosed by a major newspaper.
The state assembly member, who was born in Uganda, has maintained a substantial lead over his chief opponent, ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, before Tuesday's general election. Cuomo is campaigning without party backing after his defeat to Mamdani during the Democratic primary. Curtis Sliwa of the Guardian Angels represents Republicans in the contest.
Political watchers were surprised when Mamdani secured a decisive primary win on June 24. His campaign has since attracted support from prominent Democrats such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Kathy Hochul of New York, while also drawing contributions from numerous small donors. His platform calls for higher levies on wealthy residents and corporations, freezing certain apartment rents and expanding subsidized housing. Finance sector observers have expressed concern that these proposals might damage the city's economic standing.
The state assembly member, who was born in Uganda, has maintained a substantial lead over his chief opponent, ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, before Tuesday's general election. Cuomo is campaigning without party backing after his defeat to Mamdani during the Democratic primary. Curtis Sliwa of the Guardian Angels represents Republicans in the contest.
Political watchers were surprised when Mamdani secured a decisive primary win on June 24. His campaign has since attracted support from prominent Democrats such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Kathy Hochul of New York, while also drawing contributions from numerous small donors. His platform calls for higher levies on wealthy residents and corporations, freezing certain apartment rents and expanding subsidized housing. Finance sector observers have expressed concern that these proposals might damage the city's economic standing.
