Republicans are preparing to make Zohran Mamdani, the self-described democratic socialist poised to become New York City’s next mayor, a central figure in their midterm strategy.
Mamdani, 33, won the first round of the city’s ranked-choice Democratic primary and has proposed progressive policies such as free city buses, government-run grocery stores, and protections for undocumented immigrants. GOP leaders are already labeling him the face of what they call the “radical” Democratic Party.
Zohran understands that you can beat big money through a progressive agenda that speaks to the needs of working families and that motivates people to get involved at the grassroots level.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) June 26, 2025
He won because thousands of people knocked on doors. That’s how you win elections. pic.twitter.com/JCWEk9A0F3
“Every Democrat will have to answer for this,” said Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), per Politico. The NRCC described Mamdani as “antisemitic, anti-police, and anti-American.”
The NRSC is linking Mamdani to progressive candidates in Minnesota and Michigan, while GOP gubernatorial hopefuls are connecting their Democratic opponents to him in fundraising appeals.
Still, Republicans acknowledge his influence hinges on November’s result. “It’ll only play in the midterms if he wins the general,” Stefanik noted.
