The Brian Lehrer Show City Politics: Mamdani's Huge Night
Jun 25, 2025
Elizabeth Kim, a reporter specializing in New York City politics, and Christina Greer, a political science professor and author, delve into the implications of Zohran Mamdani's impressive win in the primary. They discuss the potential effects on disgraced figures like Andrew Cuomo and the changing dynamics of the mayoral race. Engaging listener reactions highlight key issues like childcare and community involvement. The conversation reveals evolving voter sentiments and emphasizes the need for fresh approaches in addressing housing concerns and uniting diverse communities.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mamdani Energized New Voters
- Zoran Mamdani energized many first-time and nontraditional voters by engaging directly in their communities.
- This hands-on approach surpassed Cuomo's campaign, which lacked grassroots connectivity.
Engagement Key to Success
- Cuomo struggled due to disconnect from New York City voters and minimal engagement during the campaign.
- Mamdani's willingness to speak directly with communities gave him an edge despite poll predictions.
Canvasser's Story on Childcare
- Olivia, a DSA member, shared canvassing stories where older Black and Brown voters resonated with Mamdani's message.
- She also helped provide childcare during the campaign, highlighting universal childcare as a critical issue.
