Hello Merge Tag: Where Social Media and Politics Intersect

This Simple Trick Got Zohran Mamdani Over 500K Followers & Got A New Instagram Account 5 Million Views

Nov 21, 2025
Gabbi Zutrau, a digital strategist renowned for her expertise in organic social media and automation, shares her secrets to dramatic growth. She helped political figure Zohran Mamdani gain 500,000 followers using a unique tactic that also racked up 5 million views on a new Instagram account in just six weeks. Gabbi discusses the pivotal role trial reels played in capturing attention, how campaigns can authentically engage audiences, and why investing early in digital strategies is essential for success. Her insights offer a fresh take on navigating social media in politics.
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INSIGHT

Rapid Growth Is Still Possible

  • Gabbi grew a brand-new Instagram account to about 5 million views in six weeks using current platform features and tactics.
  • This proves rapid organic growth is achievable today without pre-existing fame if you apply the right mix of strategy and consistency.
ANECDOTE

Trial Reels Fueled Mamdani's Surge

  • Gabbi introduced trial reels to the Mamdani campaign and from May to June they generated over 42 million views and 525,000 followers.
  • The campaign hit one million followers on election night, with more than half coming from that tactic.
ADVICE

Leverage Trial Reels Strategically

  • Use Instagram's trial reels feature to test content by showing it only to non-followers before publishing to your full audience.
  • Post successful trial reels repeatedly to reach new followers without spamming your existing grid.
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