Zohran Mamdani, rising as the first Muslim and South Asian mayor in the city of New York, created the biggest political upset in American history. He got elected mayor despite the hefty forces working against him.

It is not a mere head-to-head contest with politicians, rather a herculean battle against the wealthiest. What makes Mamdani so unique is that, despite the biggest bully in America—the president of the country—being against him, he ran a fearless campaign, one built on integrity, hope and public engagement. If you take away anything from his victory speech as mayor-elect, let it be, "Hope is alive."

What Zohran Mamdani displayed throughout the mayoral election race was nothing short of witnessing a prodigal genius. He had more backbone than any of the contenders, and he flaunted it proudly. While the others were busy ingratiating themselves with the Trump administration and the Israeli Zionists, he not only vocalised his support for the innocent Palestinians, aligning his policies with upholding international law, but also remained grounded in his vision for the city.

When asked, during the mayoral race debates, what would be his first foreign visit as mayor, he emphasised his focus being the Americans across the five boroughs, whom he promises to alleviate from the crisis of exorbitant costs of living, thus, he would remain in New York. The other candidates unanimously and unsurprisingly relayed: their priority would be to visit Israel. The host........

© The Express Tribune