The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Mehdi Hasan On Mamdani's Mayoral Win, Combatting Hate, Government Shutdown + More
Nov 5, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Mehdi Hasan, a British-American journalist known for his incisive political commentary, discusses Zoran Mamdani's historic mayoral win against billionaire opposition. He critiques the hypocrisy of major donors and explores how Mamdani can fulfill his ambitious progressive promises. Mehdi reflects on the importance of voter authenticity over experience, the implications of Mamdani's success for future elections, and the urgent need for reform in the face of rising authoritarianism. The dialogue also touches on the impacts of Islamophobia and strategies for reassuring diverse communities.
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Grassroots Can Outpace Billionaire Cash
- Zoran Mamdani beat a billionaire-funded machine despite massive opposition and smear campaigns.
- His victory shows grassroots energy can overwhelm elite spending in major-city politics.
Use The Mandate As Political Leverage
- Mamdani won more than 50% and a massive mandate that should be invoked constantly.
- Referencing his million-plus votes strengthens his negotiating power with Albany and state allies.
Repeat Your Vote Count Loudly
- Invoke your electoral mandate repeatedly to mobilize public support and pressure opponents.
- Use repeated messaging to translate popular votes into bargaining power with institutions.