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Watch – History on the streets: New Yorkers react to Zohran Mamdani’s win

At 34, Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani has rewritten New York City’s political story, becoming its youngest mayor in more than 100 years and the first Muslim to hold the office. With formative ties to South Africa, Mamdani’s victory electrified the city on election night. Daily Maverick’s Victoria O’Regan reports from Manhattan, capturing reactions on the streets as New Yorkers weigh the significance of a milestone election and a new era in leadership.
Victoria O’Regan
By Victoria O’Regan
7 Nov
Mamdani Winsheader Zohran Mamdani (Michael M. Santiago / Getty Images | Illustrative image: Daily Maverick)

Reporting by: Victoria O’Regan
Edited by: Joel Seboa
Filmed by: Prosper Heri
Produced by: Emilie Gambade
Sub-edited by: Ian Wolstenholme

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Michele Rivarola Nov 8, 2025, 07:35 AM

Interesting how political perceptions are country based. In SA Mamdani’s ideals would identify and align reasonably closely with the DA a party that is considered conservative in SA by many journalists DM included. Yet in the US Mamdani is considered by many as being on the far left of the Democrats. Perhaps journalist like Grootes need to have a deep look at themselves and decide to grow some spine rather than being like flags in the wind changing direction at every change of wind