Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rally for socialist Zohran Mamdani in New York mayoral race against Trump-backed opposition
QUEENS: Prominent United States leftist leaders Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rallied support for Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani at a get-out-the-vote event on Sunday.
Mamdani has transformed from an outsider to the frontrunner in New York’s unpredictable mayoral contest, aligning with the Democratic Party’s progressive wing.
The Queens stadium rally coincided with the start of early voting in the city of 8.5 million residents ahead of Election Day on November 4.
Ocasio-Cortez declared that the election would send a powerful message to President Donald Trump that his authoritarianism is unacceptable in New York.
Sanders emphasised the global significance of the election and criticised Trump for providing trillion-dollar tax breaks to the wealthiest one percent.
Mamdani praised Ocasio-Cortez for her dedication to working people and credited Sanders for pioneering the language of Democratic socialism.
A recent Victory Insights poll shows Mamdani leading with 47% support, followed by independent candidate Andrew Cuomo at 29% and Republican Curtis Sliwa at 16%.
Starbucks employee Kai Fritz expressed his belief that New York is not for sale and affirmed his participation in the fight against a broken system.
Thousands of enthusiastic supporters created a thunderous atmosphere by stomping on bleachers as sunset descended over Forest Hills.
The evening rally took on a festival-like ambiance with crowds raising cell phone lights while comedians, poets, and activists warmed up the audience.
Campaign banners promoted key platform issues including universal childcare, rent freezes, and free fast bus services throughout the city.
Current mayor Eric Adams surprisingly endorsed Andrew Cuomo despite previously describing him as a snake and a liar.
The crowd responded with loud boos when speakers mentioned Donald Trump, who has labelled Mamdani a little communist.
Ocasio-Cortez declared that their working-class community represents a fascist’s worst nightmare, generating massive cheers from supporters.
New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a Mamdani ally, framed the election as a contest between Donald Trump and all New Yorkers rather than just the candidates.
The mayoral race has focused heavily on cost of living concerns and candidates’ approaches to handling Trump’s threat to withhold federal funds if Mamdani wins. – AFP
