Zohran Mamdani’s Historic Victory as New York City Mayor Sparks GOP Concerns

By Newsmax Wires | Tuesday, 04 November 2025 11:42 PM EST

Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., asserted that Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani’s election as New York City mayor marks a pivotal shift for the Democratic Party, signaling potential setbacks for Republicans in suburban New York and swing districts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Lawler appeared on “Vote for America” shortly after Mamdani defeated former Democrat New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa in the mayoral race. The congressman emphasized that Mamdani’s victory, in a city with a 7-to-1 Democratic voter registration advantage, reflects the growing influence of leftist policies within the national party.

“Zohran Mamdani is going to be the face of the Democratic Party moving forward,” Lawler told co-hosts Greg Kelly and Lidia Curanaj. He cited exit polling indicating “about 90% of voters” in key demographics supported Mamdani, while noting nearly 50% of Cuomo’s supporters voted against a candidate rather than for one.

Lawler criticized Cuomo’s campaign as weak, citing poor ground organization and lackluster voter engagement. He also highlighted the reluctance of prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Gov. Kathy Hochul, to endorse Mamdani until after his win.

The congressman warned that Mamdani’s progressive agenda—focusing on rent freezes, free transit, and tax hikes on the wealthy—is gaining traction across the party, potentially fueling backlash in Republican-leaning suburban areas. He pointed to a “bellwether town” in his district where Republicans could face a 5-0 loss in local elections.

Mamdani’s victory, which makes him New York’s first Muslim mayor, underscores a broader Democratic alignment with socialist policies, according to Lawler. The assemblyman defeated Cuomo both in the Democratic primary and general election by championing affordability and sweeping policy reforms.