The Hell Gate Podcast An Interview With Zohran Mamdani, Democratic Candidate for Mayor of New York City
Oct 25, 2025
Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for New York City mayor and current Assemblymember, dives into his bold vision for the city. He tackles pressing issues like affordable housing, universal childcare, and rent stabilization. Addressing the Islamophobic attacks he faces, Zohran stresses the importance of resilience in politics. He shares his thoughts on keeping Jessica Tisch as NYPD commissioner and passionately defends his agenda against external threats. Plus, he offers insights into his unique diet and the importance of real snow days for schoolchildren.
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Normalized Islamophobia In Campaign Rhetoric
- Mamdani says the campaign exposed a surge of naked Islamophobia from opponents and surrogates.
- He frames these attacks as normalized indignities that hurt Muslim New Yorkers' sense of belonging.
Losing Anonymity And Planning Around Security
- Mamdani describes losing everyday anonymity and using disguises and suits to move around the city.
- He says security needs force him to plan travel and limits spontaneous trips like biking to City Hall.
Red Bull As A Coping Ritual
- Mamdani shares he uses one sugar-free Red Bull per week as a security blanket and once kept Xanax as emergency reassurance.
- He frames the Red Bull like a prescribed coping tool for campaign stress.