In a recent turn of political events, former President Barack Obama extended a supportive hand to New York City mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani during a 30-minute phone call. News of this conversation first broke in the New York Times and was later confirmed by a spokesperson, Dora Pekec, for Mamdani’s campaign.
Mamdani, an assemblyman from Queens, expressed gratitude for Obama’s willingness to serve as a “sounding board” for his future endeavors. Pekec noted, “Zohran Mamdani appreciated President Obama’s words of support and their conversation on the importance of bringing a new kind of politics to our city.” This affirmation comes just days before the pivotal mayoral election scheduled for November 4.
During their conversation, Obama reportedly praised Mamdani’s campaign, highlighting its resonance with many voters and drawing parallels to the grassroots energy that characterized his own 2008 presidential run. “Your campaign has been impressive to watch,” Obama conveyed, reinforcing his investment in Mamdani’s success beyond the immediate election challenges.
This is not the first time the former president has reached out to Mamdani; the two previously spoke in June following Mamdani’s victory in the Democratic primary. At that time, Obama’s advice was deemed particularly valuable for shaping the infrastructure needed for future governance, according to Patrick Gaspard, a former director of Obama’s campaign and now an advisor for Mamdani.
Despite these encouraging exchanges, it is essential to note that Obama’s calls do not signify a formal endorsement. Since leaving office, Obama has officially endorsed only one mayoral candidate: Karen Bass in Los Angeles. Moreover, key political figures in New York, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have refrained from publicly supporting Mamdani, maintaining a cautious approach as the November election approaches. Schumer remarked, “The bottom line is very simple. I have a good relationship with him, and we’re continuing to talk.”
While House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has recently endorsed Mamdani, he expressed skepticism about labeling him as the “future” of the Democratic Party. On CNN, Jeffries stated, “No, I think the future of the Democratic Party is going to fall, as far as we’re concerned, relative to the House Democratic Caucus and members who are doing great work all across the country.”
Mamdani’s campaign has not been without its controversies. In May, a resurfaced tweet from 2013 drew attention when he called Obama “pretty damn evil.” Mamdani, reflecting on his past statements, later described the tweet as “stupid,” highlighting the complexities of navigating political perceptions.
In their call, Mamdani also shared how Obama’s impactful speech on race has inspired his own expressions regarding current social issues, particularly Islamophobia. The two leaders even discussed the possibility of meeting in person in Washington, D.C., although no specific date has yet been arranged.
Polling data reveals that Mamdani currently leads the mayoral race with 40 percent of the vote, according to an Atlas poll conducted from October 25 to October 30. Notably, Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent after being defeated in the primary, follows closely with 34 percent, while Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa stands at 24 percent. The dynamic leading up to Election Day highlights not only Mamdani’s potential ascent but also the shifting landscape of New York politics.