SAEDNEWS: Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Muslim, won New York’s mayoral race in a symbolic, historic moment. But its effects on U.S. politics are unclear, possibly reflecting a shift away from Trumpism and growing empathy for Palestinians.
According to the Politics Desk of SaedNews, the Jomhouri-e Eslami newspaper wrote:
It is undeniable that the victory of 34-year-old Muslim candidate Zohran Mamdani in the New York mayoral race marks a significant moment in American history. However, we should be cautious about rushing to judgments regarding what this victory might mean for the United States specifically, or the West more broadly. At this stage, a few observations can be made:
A Shift Away from Trumpism
Given Mamdani’s outspoken anti-Trump positions during his campaign and the efforts by the U.S. president to undermine him, his win demonstrates that American society—or at least New York—is moving away from figures like Trump.
A Challenge to Pro-Israel Political Orthodoxy
Mamdani’s consistent support for the Palestinian people and opposition to Zionism—most notably his statement that he would arrest Netanyahu under an International Criminal Court ruling if the Israeli prime minister visited New York during his term—reveals that a portion of New York voters, and perhaps the broader American public, hold views that diverge sharply from the prevailing political narratives supported by pro-Israel media. More importantly, this result highlights how the public in the U.S. is increasingly aware of and opposed to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The Test of Leadership Style
The new mayor’s ability to turn his surprising victory into a deep, transformative shift in American politics—and either fully isolate Trumpism and the pro-Israel lobby or, conversely, allow them to regain influence—will be crucial. As a member of the Khoja Shia community, Mamdani comes from a tradition known for a cautious, conservative, and measured approach to life—a characteristic shaped by historical experiences of repeated persecution, first under British colonial rule in India, then during forced migration to Africa, and finally through expulsion from Uganda under Idi Amin. Whether Mamdani continues the same approach he used before taking office, retreats into the protective patterns of his community, or adopts a new method will directly influence his success and the political fate of Trumpism and pro-Israel influence in America.
Powerful Opposition Looms
Trump, Netanyahu, and American Zionists are unlikely to sit idle after their defeat in New York. Beyond trickery and charisma, Trump possesses substantial financial resources, while the combination of Zionist interests and Netanyahu could marshal a formidable front of wealth, influence, deceit, and even intimidation against Mamdani. Only through exceptional cleverness, courage, and prudence might Mamdani prevail; otherwise, he risks being overwhelmed by Trumpism and Zionist power.
The Perils of Power
Most importantly, the true challenge lies in how Mamdani himself responds to the power and fame he now wields. History—and even contemporary Iran—offers countless examples of individuals who, after attaining power, dramatically altered their course. If Mamdani falls prey to the intoxicating effects of power, even the most optimistic predictions for post-mayoral transformation will amount to little more than wishful thinking. Real change will only be possible if he remains undaunted by power itself.
