What Next | Daily News and Analysis Zohran Mamdani’s Former Boss Weighs In
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Jun 26, 2025 
In this discussion, Ross Barkan, a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine and editor of The Metropolitan Review, dives into the surprising political rise of Zohran Mamdani. He discusses Mamdani's unique strategies that galvanized first-time voters and united diverse communities. Barkan contrasts his campaign style with that of more traditional candidates, unpacking the impact of ranked-choice voting. The chat also navigates the realistic challenges Mamdani faces in governance versus his ambitious promises, revealing the complexities of change within the political landscape.
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Zohran's Campaign Skills Surprise
- Ross Barkan first met Zohran Mamdani when Mamdani volunteered as his field director and later campaign manager.
- Mamdani excelled at motivating people to do hard work like knocking on doors, showing unexpected talent.
Historic Scale of Leftist Win
- Mamdani's win marks a historic scale for leftist candidates in multiracial, working- and middle-class coalitions.
- His achievement exceeds prior leftists who competed mostly in localized districts.
Contrasting Campaign Styles
- Mamdani campaigned relentlessly, walking the length of Manhattan and engaging voters personally.
- Cuomo campaigned minimally, showing entitlement and detachment from active voter outreach.