Zohran Mamdani Targets Trump After New York Won, Vows Change

Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani has made history by becoming the first Indian-American Muslim and youngest mayor of New York City. In his powerful victory speech, Mamdani thanked New Yorkers for believing in a new kind of politics and vowed to build a city that is affordable, inclusive, and truly represents its people. “Thank you to the new generation of New York. We’ll fight for you because we are you. The future is in our hands,” he said to a crowd of cheering supporters, adding that the city had “toppled a political dynasty.”

During his speech, Mamdani directly addressed US President Donald Trump, saying, “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.” He promised to put an end to the corruption that allows billionaires to evade taxes and exploit the system, declaring that if any city can show the nation how to defeat Trump, it is New York — the city that gave rise to him. Shortly after, Trump reacted on social media with a cryptic message: “…AND SO IT BEGINS!”

Mamdani also took a moment to acknowledge his main rival, Andrew Cuomo, wishing him the best in private life. “But let tonight be the last time I utter his name, as we abandon a politics that answers to the few,” he said, signaling a clear shift away from traditional political structures.

In a heartfelt segment of his speech, Mamdani paid tribute to India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, quoting the historic ‘Tryst with Destiny’ speech. “A moment comes rarely in history when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance,” he said. Drawing inspiration from his heritage, Mamdani emphasized that New York will remain a city built, powered, and now led by immigrants.

The 34-year-old leader reiterated his key campaign promises — free buses, universal childcare, and affordable housing — saying these initiatives are essential to ensure that New York remains a city for everyone, not just the privileged few. He shared a personal story about joining a 15-day hunger strike outside City Hall alongside a taxi driver named Richard, saying emotionally, “My brother, we are in City Hall now.”

Expressing gratitude to New Yorkers from all walks of life — from taxi drivers to nurses and small business owners — Mamdani reminded them that this victory belongs to the working class. “This city is your city, and this democracy is yours too,” he said, promising to serve every resident, including those who did not vote for him.

In an emotional closing, he thanked his parents — acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani — for their guidance and values. “To my mama and baba, I am so proud to be your son,” he said, adding, “I am young, and I am a Muslim. I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim.”

As Mamdani prepares to be sworn in on January 1, his historic win marks the beginning of a new era for New York — one defined by diversity, reform, and a renewed commitment to the people.