New Approach to Campaigning in NYC Mayoral Race

The CEO of Fat Camp Films, Zach Sage Fox, is aiming to harness social media’s potential to connect with new audiences, draw in younger voters, and inform socialist New York mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani as Election Day on November 4 approaches.

Fox was brought on board by independent New York City mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo’s campaign, particularly after current Mayor Eric Adams stepped out of the race. He is set to produce eight to ten social media videos for the campaign.

“Poll turnout has started to tighten, which I think is directly related to our social media efforts,” Fox expressed in a discussion about the campaign’s recent shifts.

Mamdani’s Campaign Tightens

According to an Atlas Intel poll reported by the New York Post, Mamdani currently leads by a narrow 6.6 points.

“I believe we are playing a significant role in that shift,” Fox noted. “But the real question is, well, is it a bit too late? We have less than a month to make an impact. There are countless other elements at play that we aren’t involved with.”

With a degree in political communication from the University of Pennsylvania, Fox has extensive experience collaborating with nonprofits and well-known brands like Coca-Cola and Airbnb.

While Fox and his team aren’t the only ones shaping Cuomo’s social media strategy, they’ve produced videos that have gone viral, attracting millions of views and affecting some voters’ perspectives.

One video, titled “Would you like to hire Zoran?“, features Fox visiting local businesses in New York City, showcasing Mamdani’s resume, and asking owners if they would employ him, resulting in over 5 million views.

“Every reaction you see is genuine,” Fox remarked, recalling some amusing instances. “Even a local pizza shop had some sharp remarks regarding his resume. They really thought twice about hiring him.”

Several companies, including Equinox and McDonald’s, expressed they wouldn’t hire Mamdani based on his experience.

Fox quipped, “If McDonald’s isn’t hiring him, how could he make it as mayor?” He went on to question Mamdani’s leadership skills for managing significant responsibilities.

Viral Videos and Public Reactions

One video titled “Muslims against Mamdani,” showing a group of Muslims questioning onlookers about their support, gained more than 10 million views.

Another parody video, “I’m Just a Sill,” inspired by Schoolhouse Rock, topped 15 million views in just one day.

“I’m feeling optimistic,” Fox shared. “We’ve certainly boosted his chances compared to when we first started. If it’s a solid enough effort, only time will tell.”

Fox, identifying as an independent, mentioned he would have collaborated with anyone, including Cuomo, Adams, or Republican Curtis Sliwa, to oppose Mamdani.

Concerns About Mamdani’s Candidacy

Fox expressed disbelief at Mamdani’s primary victory, finding it troubling given what he perceives as Mamdani’s troubling background and unprofessional history. “It was surprising to see someone with anti-Semitic views so close to New York’s mayoral seat,” he reflected.

He clarified his stance, asserting that his fears stem from Mamdani’s views rather than his Muslim background. “I’m not concerned about a Muslim mayor. I worry about having someone who sympathizes with terrorism in power,” Fox stated.

He pointed to Mamdani’s previous rap career, where he allegedly referenced the “Holy Land Five”—individuals he calls heroes, which Fox argues is alarming.

Even beyond his Jewish heritage, Fox lamented his love for New York, voicing fears over safety under a potential Mamdani administration. He shared, “Defunding the police isn’t a viable approach; rather, adding officers could make a difference.”

“It’s not about party lines,” he insisted. “But Mamdani’s extreme views on crime could lead to unnecessary hardships for New Yorkers. I’m comfortable, but I care about everyday people.” He raised concerns about the safety of those commuting through dangerous neighborhoods, saying, “They’re vulnerable.”