On Tuesday, in a stunning political upset, 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist and member of the state assembly, defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo to become the front-runner in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, according to reports.

According to preliminary ranked-choice vote totals, Mamdani received roughly 43.5 percent of first-choice votes, while Cuomo came in second at about 36.4 percent. Final results, which are anticipated to be made public by July 1, are still pending after more ranked-choice rounds, as no candidate has surpassed the 50 percent threshold. 

Late on election night, Cuomo reportedly called Mamdani to congratulate him on his victory. 

With its emphasis on housing, affordability, and extensive public services, Mamdani's campaign struck a chord with younger and more progressive voters. Free public transportation, free childcare, city-run supermarkets, and a rent freeze on rent-stabilized apartments were among the ideas on his platform. 

Additionally, he received significant support from progressive figures such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders.

Cuomo, on the other hand, relied on his well-known name, the support of the establishment, and unions, obtaining funds from organizations like the Fix the City super PAC. However, in a contest influenced by grassroots momentum, his campaign was unable to regain its lead.

As the Democratic nominee, Mamdani would become the first Asian, Muslim, and millennial mayor of New York City. He would also be the second person to join the Democratic Socialists of America, after David Dinkins. In November, he will have to contend with a broad field that includes Republican Curtis Sliwa, independent Jim Walden, and incumbent independent Mayor Eric Adams.

Mamdani's candidacy has inspired young voters and heralded a generational shift in Democratic politics, despite doubts about his managerial background and progressive views, particularly on Israeli-Palestinian relations.