• Governor Kathy Hochul endorses Zohran Mamdani for NYC mayor, highlighting shared priorities on affordability.
• Mamdani leads polls ahead of the November election, reflecting his strong support among Democratic voters.
• Former President Donald Trump criticizes Hochul's endorsement, dubbing Mamdani a “Liddle’ Communist.”
• Hochul emphasizes the importance of strong leadership against President Trump's influence.
• Analysts suggest Hochul’s backing could sway undecided voters in the upcoming election.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has formally endorsed Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City. This endorsement comes as a significant political alliance between the centrist governor and the progressive candidate, reflecting their shared priorities in addressing the city’s affordability crisis. In an opinion piece for The New York Times, Hochul remarked, "I heard a leader who is focused on making New York City affordable – a goal I enthusiastically support," signaling their agreement on key issues despite previous disagreements, according to Newsweek, LA Times, and ABC News.

Mamdani, running a progressive campaign that includes proposals for affordable housing and public transport, has recently surged in the polls, reportedly holding a 22-point lead over his closest rival, former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Hochul's endorsement is seen as a pivotal moment in consolidating Democratic support, especially after Mamdani's unexpected victory in the primary against establishment figures, according to Al Jazeera and Middle East Eye.

In a striking reaction, former President Trump criticized Hochul’s endorsement on social media, labeling Mamdani a "Liddle' Communist" and expressing disbelief at her decision. Trump stated that the endorsement represented "a rather shocking development," indicating that Mamdani's candidacy and potential rise were being closely monitored in Washington, D.C., as reported by Newsweek and Dawn.

Hochul's endorsement not only aligns with Mamdani's views on affordability but also reflects a broader strategy to prepare for an election marked by stark divisions within the Democratic Party. Prominent Democratic leaders like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries have yet to publicly endorse Mamdani, suggesting a rift between establishment figures and the progressive base that Mamdani represents, according to BBC and Middle East Eye.