Slate News What Next | Zohran Mamdani’s Former Boss Weighs In
Jun 26, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Ross Barkan, a contributing writer at The New York Times Magazine and editor of The Metropolitan Review, dives into the rise of Zohran Mamdani, a socialist candidate shaking up New York City politics. They explore Mamdani's unique ability to engage first-time voters and form diverse coalitions. Barkan reflects on the political landscape and the challenges of fulfilling ambitious campaign promises. He critiques the establishment's support for conventional candidates, highlighting the need for a shift towards addressing everyday economic issues.
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Mamdani's Campaign Manager Beginnings
- Ross Barkan once ran for New York State Assembly with Zohran Mamdani as his campaign manager.
- Mamdani showed exceptional talent and work ethic that surprised even Ross with how well he managed the campaign.
Historic Scale of Mamdani's Win
- Mamdani won by mobilizing a broad multiracial working- and middle-class coalition.
- This scale of left-wing victory in an executive office race is unprecedented in recent American politics.
Mamdani's Serious Campaign Style
- Mamdani's opponents underestimated his seriousness despite his charisma.
- Ross said Mamdani was far from naive; he was a highly competent and serious campaigner from the start.
