NYC Mayor: The Democrats’ (Latest) Catch-22

Democrats Still Haven't Learned. I'm Not Sure They Ever Will

Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani. Courtesy AP

Today, New Yorkers will rank the candidates they best believe should lead the City. Given the Big Apple’s heavy left lean, the Democratic Primary SHOULD where the next mayor is chosen. However, given the (latest) split between the party’s progressive and establishment wings, the outcome could lead to, of all things, the first Republican mayor since Michael Bloomberg 1.0.

Zohran Mamdani embodies the ethos and energy of rising Democratic voters. Anti-establishment, activist in worldview, and an outright socialist in many respects, Mamdani is scaring the hell out of New York’s elite, ruling and financial class. What if he tries to do the things he’s talking about? Get out the smelling salts and fainting couches.

Mamdani has enjoyed the bulk of the energy and attention in the race. He’s been all over the city, all over the mainstream and new media. Progressive icons like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are supporting him. David Hogg, thorn in the side of old (age-wise) Democrats, is in on the action, too.

Some of his positions, especially on defund the police give moderate voters pause. Plenty of polling shows people (of all demographics) want better cops, not ‘no cops.’ His answer to Tim Miller’s question about “globalize the Intifada” was ham-fisted and designed (per usual) not to offend his base.

If elected, Mamdani will need to break the recent cycle of progressive mayors being unwilling to do the job to which they’re elected. Vision and charisma are critical parts of campaigning. However, residents won’t give him the space for those big dreams if he can’t keep the garbage picked up or the subway safe. We elect mayors, and representatives in general, so we don’t have to worry about the everyday things. We have the right to expect people will do the jobs for which we’ve hired them. Pollyanna, I know.