The Listening Post

Media, money & the rise of Zohran Mamdani | The Listening Post

Nov 1, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, guests include Kate de Gruyter, Senior Director at Third Way, who critiques democratic socialist candidates; Adam Johnson, a left-leaning commentator exploring media bias; Briahna Joy Gray, a progressive analyst advocating for anti-establishment stances; and Jon Paul Lupo, a communications consultant dissecting media framing. They delve into Zohran Mamdani's political rise amid intense media scrutiny, the implications of his candidacy for Democratic dynamics, and how his clear policy proposals counteract hostility, positioning him as a transformative figure for progressive movements.
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INSIGHT

Establishment Versus Grassroots Power

  • Zohran Mamdani's rise reveals tensions between New York's corporate establishment and grassroots populism.
  • His candidacy forces reexamination of who shapes political narratives and power in the city.
ANECDOTE

Viral Street Interviews Spark Momentum

  • Mamdani first went viral doing man-on-the-street interviews after the 2024 presidential election.
  • His warm, curious approach reached voters who had drifted toward Trump and reopened conversations with Democrats.
ADVICE

Engage Voters Outside Safe Spaces

  • Get outside safe spaces and engage diverse voters directly through accessible conversations.
  • Face varied interviews and outlets to broaden appeal and make your case to more people.
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