By: Farooq Mirza ; Zohran Mamdani, the South Asian Muslim candidate who began his mayoral campaign at just 1% in the polls, is now within striking distance of defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in what could become one of the most significant political upsets in New York City history. Pakistani American Community specially , Advocacy Group , Pak American Society chaired by SHAMS US ZAMAN, Sulman Butt and Shahzad Anver endorsed him and hosted a remarkable Community Event in front of Makki Misque Brooklyn New York . The entire Muslim Communuty decided to endorse him as well .
Speaking to supporters, Mamdani reflected on the eight-month journey that transformed his campaign from a long-shot bid to a competitive movement. With over 46,000 volunteers who knocked on 1.1 million doors and made 500,000 phone calls, his grassroots operation has focused on making New York City more affordable for working and middle-class residents.
The campaign has not been without controversy. Opponents, including allies of Cuomo, have circulated mailers labeling Mandani as “dangerous” and “radical,” even digitally altering images of him to exaggerate his beard—a tactic critics have condemned as Islamophobic. Mamdani dismissed these attacks, emphasizing that New Yorkers recognize Muslims as their neighbors who share the same aspirations for equality and respect.
Drawing on his upbringing, Mamdani spoke of the values instilled in him by his grandparents, Yusuf and Kulsum, who taught him that being a good Muslim means being a good person—helping those in need and following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to “make things easier, not harder” and to “spread glad tidings.”
Despite facing death threats in the final days of the campaign, Mamdani remained steadfast, framing the election as a defining moment for the city. He urged New York’s Muslim community, which includes 200,000 registered Democrats, to turn out in force on June 24th, stressing that equality and respect are not given but won at the ballot box.
Referencing a past campaign for Pakistani candidate Ali Najmi, who lost a 2015 City Council race, Mamdani highlighted the importance of voter awareness, recalling how a supporter had approached Najmi after the election, unaware it had already passed.
With polls showing a tight race, Mamdani’s final message was one of urgency and hope: “Are you ready to win? Are you ready to make history?” If successful, his victory would mark a historic milestone for representation in one of America’s most diverse cities.
The election will be held on June 24th.Hopefully he would be the next Mayor of New York City .
