The mayor of many firsts
By Cristina DC Pastor
Zohran Mamdani has made history on multiple fronts — New York City’s youngest mayor, its first Muslim leader, its first democratic socialist, and the list goes on.
His candidacy ignited a political reckoning unlike anything the city has seen in recent memory. Voter turnout surged, political lines deepened, and his magnetic charisma has drawn comparisons to Barack Obama in his early rise to prominence.
Among those watching closely are Filipino New Yorkers, who have their own thoughts about this trailblazing figure seeking to transform city politics. Their voices are featured below.
Ramon Gil
Communications Director
The Workshop in Business Opportunities
(Opinions are his own)
The wife and I were in Stuy town a few months ago when this South Asian woman handed us a flyer and said, “My son is running for Mayor.” It was filmmaker Mira Nair! Later that summer, my college-age nephew interned for us and made a strong case for Mamdani as he was also volunteering for the campaign.
So last night we thought we’d try something else. My wife was a big Cuomo fan during the pandemic but to us, Cuomo represented the old way of doing things. Mamdani may not have all the authority or funds to do everything he’s promised, but at least, I assume, he’s going to give it a try. I keep thinking of the Tony Robbins quote. “If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.” Can’t believe I just quoted Tony Robbins.
Desireena Almoradie
Filmmaker, LGBTQ activist
It’s a great victory for immigrant, LGBTQ, and everyone who believes that Nuyok should be a city for all people, not just billionaires and millionaires. We love Nuyok and we love Zohran! Now let’s all work together to make sure he delivers!
Jessy Daing
Director
Asite Product Development
Metropolitan Transportation Authority – MTA
When I first arrived in New York 25 years ago, I was in awe of this city. I fell in love right away, that’s why I decided to stay. I remember saying out loud this is where I belong. Its rhythm, its energy, it’s diversity and how it embraced people from every corner of the world. It truly is a melting pot of dreams, resilience and endless possibilities.
And now, for the first time, New York is led by a mayor who truly embodies that spirit. A proud immigrant who understands what it means to build a life, work hard, and rise against all odds.
Mayor Zohran said it best: “New York will remain a city of immigrants. A city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and as of tonight, led by an immigrant.”
Maria Rivera
Model, Digital creator
As a minority person of color and LGBTQI community member who immigrated to the United States, I envision a promising future for New York City, where freedom, safety, and inclusivity flourish. His campaign’s pledge to tax the wealthy, provide affordable living, and ensure quality healthcare for working-class individuals resonates with my aspirations, instilling hope that he will transform these promises into tangible outcomes. Given the current administration’s reinforcement of fears, hate and the struggle to afford the cost of living, which causes widespread anxiety in daily life, his victory has brought a fresh perspective, heralding a new generation of leaders in our city. As he said in his victory speech, “HOPE IS ALIVE!”
Anonymous Manhattan socialite
Sorry, I can’t give any comment. I did not vote for him. Hope and pray he’ll be a good mayor of NYC. I have been a resident of NY for 50-plus years. I’m worried of this one.
