The Briefing with Jen Psaki 'From lecturing to listening': Mamdani explains how he drew votes from Trump supporters in NYC race
Jun 26, 2025
Zohran Mamdani, a New York City mayoral candidate and self-described socialist, shares insights from his campaign in a recent primary. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to former Trump supporters, showcasing innovative grassroots strategies over traditional tactics. Mamdani discusses the challenges of navigating NYC's diverse political landscape, highlighting the need for authenticity and representation amid rising concerns about hate crimes. His approach focuses on building coalitions and addressing community needs.
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Optimism Over Joyless Politics
- Mamdani’s optimistic and hopeful messaging contrasted Cuomo’s joyless campaign.
- His approach resonated broadly by addressing real economic struggles and connecting with everyday New Yorkers.
Listening Over Lecturing Strategy
- Mamdani shifted his campaign focus from lecturing voters to listening to their real concerns.
- He found that affordability and economic issues motivated former Trump voters to return to the Democratic Party.
Fighting Inequality Nationally
- Mamdani's campaign reflects a nationwide demand for political leaders who fight economic inequality.
- This is part of a broader movement led by progressive figures like Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders.