In a notable political development, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York City provided her support to Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral campaign on Thursday. This endorsement represents a significant effort to unite progressive voters against former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s potential return.“Assembly Member Mamdani has demonstrated a real ability on the ground to put together a coalition of working-class New Yorkers that is strongest to lead the pack,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “In the final stretch of the race, we need to get very real about that.”With the June 24 Democratic primary approaching, Cuomo maintains his lead in polls, reminiscent of 2021’s scenario when progressive disunity led to a moderate victory.Ocasio-Cortez, 35, selected Mamdani, 33, who shares similar characteristics: a Queens-based leftist representative who has gained substantial grassroots support through innovative policy proposals and effective social media presence.Mamdani’s proposals include free city buses, rent stabilisation measures, and municipally operated grocery stores, funded through a £10 billion business and wealth tax. His stance on Israel has drawn attention from critics.Ocasio-Cortez emphasised the necessity of defeating Cuomo, whom she associates with wealthy interests. She announced her ranked-choice selections, placing Adrienne Adams second, Brad Lander third, followed by Scott Stringer and Zellnor Myrie.“Even if the entire left coalesced around any one candidate, an ideological coalition is still insufficient for us to win,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “We have to have a true working-class coalition.”While her endorsement carries weight among liberal groups, its impact remains uncertain. Mamdani has reached campaign fundraising limits and already secured substantial support from young, liberal voters.The Working Families Party’s ranked choices largely align with Ocasio-Cortez’s selections, suggesting some progressive unity. Upon receiving the endorsement after Wednesday’s televised debate, Mamdani praised Ocasio-Cortez as a “once-in-a-generation leader.”Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged challenges regarding Mamdani’s experience and support among certain communities. Drawing from her own early political career, she expressed understanding of young leadership responsibilities while emphasising the need for appropriate expertise and support systems.Her endorsement decision may influence her political trajectory, as speculation continues about her potential presidential candidacy in 2028 or a possible Senate bid for Chuck Schumer’s seat.
