Zohran Mamdani Wins NYC Democratic Mayoral Primary, GOP Targets Socialist Rise

Republicans are strategizing to weaken the Democratic position in New York City's mayoral race by potentially securing a Trump Administration job for GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa, aiming to open the Republican spot to current mayor Eric Adams, who may consider running as a Republican. Meanwhile, the Democratic primary victory of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani has energized progressives but alarmed moderates and Republicans, who are aggressively using Mamdani's left-wing platform and controversial stances as political ammunition against the Democratic Party. President Trump and GOP leaders have labeled Mamdani an extremist, tying vulnerable Democrats to him and using his candidacy to criticize Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York Democratic establishment. Republicans, including potential gubernatorial candidates Elise Stefanik and Mike Lawler, blame Hochul for Mamdani's nomination and vow to defeat her and Democrats in upcoming elections. Democrats face pressure to clarify their stance on Mamdani, with Republicans demanding they either denounce or embrace his policies. The situation highlights a deep ideological divide within the Democratic Party and presents a challenge for both parties ahead of the 2026 midterms.