Zohran Mamdani

Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on October 18, 1991, in Kampala, Uganda, and moved to New York City with his family at the age of 7. He is a member of the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America.

Before entering electoral politics, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure prevention housing counselor, helping low-income homeowners of color across Queens fight eviction and stay in their homes. He also worked as a rapper and served as a campaign manager for political candidates.

Mamdani holds the distinction of being the first South Asian man to serve in the New York State Assembly, the first Ugandan, and only the third Muslim to ever serve in that legislative body.

Education

Mamdani is a graduate of the New York City Public School System and attended the Bronx High School of Science. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College. He became a naturalized American citizen in 2018.

Political Experience

Mamdani was first elected to the New York State Assembly for the 36th district in 2020, defeating five-term Democratic incumbent Aravella Simotas in the primary. The 36th district encompasses Astoria, Ditmars-Steinway, and Astoria Heights in Queens. He was reelected without opposition in both 2022 and 2024.

In October 2024, Mamdani announced his candidacy for mayor of New York City, campaigning on a progressive platform that included fare-free city buses, universal child care, city-owned grocery stores, rent freezes on rent-stabilized units, additional affordable housing, and a $30 minimum wage by 2030. He was elected and sworn in as the 112th Mayor of New York City on January 1, 2026. Diana Moreno was subsequently elected to replace him in the State Assembly.