New York City Mayoral Race: Youth and Inexperience Under Scrutiny

By Eric Mack | Sunday, 02 November 2025 12:04 PM EST

Democrat socialist Zohran Mamdani’s supporters remain unfazed by his policies, including government-run groceries, free buses, rent freezes, or anti-policing rhetoric, even as he avoids condemning antisemitic “global the intifada” chants. However, his lack of experience has raised concerns ahead of Tuesday’s New York City mayoral election, according to The New York Times.

Sue Ann Todhunter, a supporter, admitted uncertainty about Mamdani’s ability to manage the city but stated she plans to vote for him regardless. In a political landscape dominated by Democrats, where low-turnout elections often favor the party, the contest has drawn two unconventional candidates: former governor Andrew Cuomo, disgraced over harassment allegations, and Mamdani, a 34-year-old assemblyman born in Uganda.

A Quinnipiac University poll revealed that nearly half of New York City voters doubt Mamdani’s qualifications to lead the city, despite his strong polling numbers. Only 39% believe he possesses the necessary experience, compared to 47% who disagree. In contrast, 73% view Cuomo as experienced, while just 24% hold the same for Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa.

Cuomo has positioned experience as a central campaign issue, warning that Mamdani’s inexperience could “kill New York City.” He also claims he would better counter President Donald Trump, who has threatened to withhold federal funding and labeled Mamdani “my little communist mayor.” If elected, Mamdani would become the city’s youngest mayor in over a century. He has pledged to retain NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and rely on Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul to build a “seasoned” team.

While some voters see his youth as an asset, others fear the challenges of managing a $112 billion budget and 300,000 employees. A Queens supporter acknowledged Mamdani’s inexperience, calling him “green.” Meanwhile, Sliwa criticizes Democratic policies for exacerbating the city’s issues, urging voters to reject Cuomo’s return.

“Republicans don’t surrender,” Sliwa declared, vowing to fight for law and order values if elected.