NEW YORK (Diya TV) — U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal has endorsed Zohran Mamdani in New York City’s high-stakes mayoral race. Her support comes just days before voters cast their ballots in a closely watched ranked-choice election.
Jayapal, a Democrat from Washington and chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, shared her endorsement in a video posted on X. In the video, she urged voters to support Mamdani and City Comptroller Brad Lander, calling them “tested leaders with moral courage.”
Jayapal also used her message to send a warning about former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who is running as a comeback candidate. “Do not rank Andrew Cuomo on your ballot,” she said firmly.
Jayapal is one of the most prominent progressive voices in Congress. Her backing carries weight, especially with younger and left-leaning voters. By stepping into the New York mayoral race, she is signaling that this election matters beyond city limits.
“Tuesday’s election is big and not just for New York City,” Jayapal said. “It is going to show the whole country how we’re responding in this moment and that we are ready for new bold leadership.” Her words underscore the national spotlight on New York’s mayoral contest. The race features a crowded field, a complex ranked-choice voting system, and growing divides between establishment Democrats and rising progressives.
Mamdani, a state assemblymember from Queens, has built a campaign centered on affordable housing, climate justice, and police reform. He is part of the Democratic Socialists of America and has strong support from progressive groups and activists. Jayapal’s endorsement adds national visibility to Mamdani’s grassroots campaign. Her statement highlights shared values, including a focus on equity, transparency, and accountability in government.
“We don’t just need someone who can win,” Jayapal said. “We need someone ready to lead with moral clarity and vision. Zohran Mamdani has shown that time and again.”
Mamdani thanked Jayapal on social media, calling her “a fearless leader and champion for working people.” He said her support “means the world” to his team. The race also marks a potential comeback for Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations. While Cuomo has not secured major endorsements, he has strong name recognition and access to deep political networks.
Jayapal’s message was clear in rejecting Cuomo’s candidacy. “We cannot go back to politics as usual,” she said. “This is the time to move forward, not backward.”
Cuomo’s campaign has not responded to Jayapal’s comments. However, he has spent recent weeks trying to rebuild his image, holding town halls and making media appearances. The endorsement comes as progressives seek to expand their influence in major U.S. cities. New York, long seen as a liberal stronghold, has recently seen tension between its moderate and left-wing Democrats.
This race is a key test of the progressive movement’s strength in citywide elections. Ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank up to five candidates, which can benefit candidates with strong grassroots support like Mamdani. Voter turnout is expected to play a major role in the final result. Polls suggest that many voters remain undecided or confused about the ranked-choice process.
Jayapal’s involvement may help energize young voters and those aligned with the broader progressive agenda. Her call for “new bold leadership” reflects a growing desire for change within the Democratic base.
Election Day is Tuesday, and early voting is already underway. Voters will rank their preferred candidates, and the results could take days or even weeks to finalize. The outcome will not only determine the next mayor but could reshape the direction of Democratic politics in New York and beyond.
