Election Highlights: Socialism’s Gains in 2025
New Yorkers have chosen Zoran Mamdani to lead the nation’s largest city, marking a significant win for the Democratic Socialists of America. His election exemplifies a noteworthy achievement for those advocating for socialism in the U.S.
Earlier this year, figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez energized Democrats with a campaign to “fight the oligarchy,” especially following a tough loss in the previous year. Now, the socialist movement celebrates two major victories: Mamdani in New York City and self-designated socialist Katie Wilson in Seattle.
In a statement, DSA remarked, “With Zoran’s success, the people have triumphed over the oligarchy, the working class has outmaneuvered corporate interests, and democratic socialism has overtaken the Democratic establishment.” This statement accompanied Mamdani’s celebration of his win.
Meanwhile, Seattle’s Mayor Bruce Harrell conceded to Katie Wilson after a tightly-contested race that stretched over a week, empowering the city’s leftist faction.
Embracing Democratic Socialism in New York City
In his victory announcement, Mamdani expressed congratulations to fellow socialists. He shared sentiments reflecting a new political direction where corporate influence is rejected, emphasizing a commitment to serve working people. “From one mayor to another, we wish you the best. Seattle is in capable hands,” Mamdani remarked.
Both Mamdani and Wilson made history as their cities’ first millennial mayors, promoting policies for affordability and emphasizing progressive measures—things like universal child care and city-operated grocery stores funded through higher taxes on the wealthy.
Wilson stated, “We want to ensure everyone has a roof over their heads. I envision universal child care, world-class public transport, safe spaces for children, and affordable housing—more wealth and land managed by communities instead of corporations.”
As President Trump’s second-term agenda looms ahead, both mayors have pledged to enact change that showcases their cities “in opposition to Trump.” Notably, Trump has indicated a willingness to use the National Guard in various cities to tackle challenges like crime and immigration, warning that federal funding could be cut to New York City should Mamdani win.
Election Day 2025: The Rise of Socialism?
Mamdani’s victory speech underscored his commitment to immigrant rights, stating, “New York thrives on its diversity; we will continue to be led by immigrants.” He added a direct message to Trump: “To reach any of us, you must go through all of us.”
At his election night gathering, Mamdani’s supporters chanted “DSA” as he celebrated his win. DSA leaders were also present at high-profile events leading up to the election, joining forces with Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez.
While Governor Kathy Hochul received a lackluster reception from Mamdani’s supporters during her speech, it was clear the energy had shifted towards the socialist candidates.
However, Mamdani’s proposed initiatives hinge on Hochul’s approval for certain tax increases. Both he and Wilson seek to instigate considerable policy changes in their coastal cities, although socialist candidates elsewhere, like in the Midwest, haven’t fared as well this election season. For instance, Jacob Frey secured re-election in Minneapolis, holding off a challenge from socialist candidate Omar Fateh.
Fateh, noted for his own campaign’s challenges, was likened to Mamdani—yet he didn’t achieve the same level of success.
The road ahead is uncertain, with progressive candidates already eyeing the midterm elections in 2026. The lingering question remains: will the socialist momentum endure?
