Speaking at a large rally in Queens, the 34-year-old mayor addressed a crowd of supporters and defended his political ideology. “I know many people use the word ‘socialist’ as an insult to shame us,” he said. “No matter how hard they try, we will not be ashamed. We will continue to use the power of government to fight for the rights of ordinary people, not just a privileged few.”
As evidence of his administration’s progress since taking office on January 1, Mamdani pointed to infrastructure improvements, noting that more than 100,000 potholes across the city have been filled. He described these efforts as part of a broader commitment to improving everyday quality of life.
“If the government cannot handle small tasks, why should you trust us with bigger ones?” the mayor said. “If we can’t fix the roads you travel on, how can we promise to transform the city?”
The rally was also attended by veteran left-wing leader Bernie Sanders, a close ally of Mamdani.
During the event, Mamdani outlined progress on several campaign promises. He said plans for government-run grocery stores are advancing quickly, with the first location expected to open next year. His administration is also working to provide free childcare services for families.
The city’s first Muslim mayor added that he has already made changes within the city council to pave the way for a rent freeze in the coming months. However, a proposal to make public transportation entirely free remains under discussion with state authorities.
Two opinion polls released this week show mixed public sentiment. Mamdani currently holds a 48% approval rating among New York residents and 43% among registered voters.
According to an Emerson College Polling/Pix11 survey, 54% of respondents support his childcare initiatives, while 49% view his efforts to reduce housing costs positively. However, the same survey found that 68% of Hispanic voters and 58% of Black voters believe the city is heading in the wrong direction.
Although Mamdani was a strong critic of former President Donald Trump during his campaign, he has taken a more conciliatory approach in recent months. The mayor has visited the White House twice and appears to be maintaining a working relationship with the Republican leader.
A Marist poll found that 59% of New Yorkers believe Mamdani has struck the “right balance” in his dealings with Trump.
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