New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced on Wednesday, November 5th that his transition team will be entirely composed of women.
In a video posted on social media platform X, Mamdani stated, “Last night we made history, and today we are working to build a new government.”
Mamdani emerged victorious in the New York City mayoral election on November 4th, with incumbent Mayor Eric Adams beginning the process of transferring power to the mayor-elect’s team.
During the transition period, Mamdani’s team will focus on “creating a City Hall that can deliver on campaign promises: making New York a more affordable city and being accountable to the people we serve.”
Several co-chairs announced on the transition team website are prominent members of the Democratic Party, particularly active in New York City politics.
The transition team includes:
– Former Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan;
– Former Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development Maria Torres-Springer;
– United Way of New York City Chair Grace Bonilla;
– Former Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Melanie Hartzog;
– Political consultant Elana Leopold.
Mamdani identifies as a democratic socialist, and his campaign for mayor of America’s largest city has garnered national attention. With 93% of the votes counted, he has secured a vote share exceeding 50%.
He defeated primary opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa.
Running as a political outsider, Mamdani attracted significant grassroots support with a progressive platform. Despite limited endorsement from Democratic Party leaders, his progressive stance ultimately secured his position as the Democratic Party’s candidate.
Far-left Democratic Party members of Congress, such as Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senators Bernie Sanders, publicly supported Mamdani’s candidacy.
However, high-ranking Democratic Party leaders in Washington appeared more hesitant.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries only publicly supported Mamdani toward the end of the campaign, emphasizing that Mamdani does not represent the future of the Democratic Party.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer refrained from issuing any statements of support throughout the New York City mayoral election.
Mamdani’s election also sets the stage for potential challenges with federal authorities.
During his campaign, the mayor-elect pledged to shield New York City from the influence of former President Trump, including opposing actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the city.
On Wednesday, former President Trump, in an interview with Fox News host Brett Baier, expressed mixed feelings, stating, “I’m torn because I want the new mayor to really do well – after all, I deeply love New York, I truly love this city.”
Trump reiterated his position that Mamdani is a “communist” whose policies are destined to fail.
When asked if he had contacted the New York Mayor-elect, Trump indicated that Mamdani should proactively reach out to him.