On Election Day 2025, New York City witnessed its highest voter turnout in decades, with over 2 million votes cast in the mayoral race. Polls also closed in Virginia, marking a significant electoral moment as Democrats secured several key victories. The New York contest featured Democrat Zohran Mamdani, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa in a generational and ideological battle.
The 2025 New York City mayoral election saw unprecedented voter engagement, with more than 2 million New Yorkers casting their ballots—a turnout level not seen since 1969. The race was highly contested, highlighted by the Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist aiming to become the city’s youngest mayor and first Muslim mayor, competing against independent candidate and former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Mamdani, who had already won the Democratic primary earlier this year by defeating Cuomo, capitalized on a platform focused on addressing economic inequality and affordability. Cuomo ran as an independent after losing the primary, while Sliwa emphasized tough-on-crime policies with Republican backing.
Polls also closed in Virginia at 7 p.m. ET, where Democrat Abigail Spanberger emerged victorious, becoming Virginia's first female governor. Democratic wins extended to lieutenant governor and attorney general races, showcasing strong Democratic performances across states.
The election marked the first major voting event since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, with his endorsements playing a role in the campaigns. Trump backed Cuomo, while also criticizing Mamdani on multiple occasions.
Key Highlights:
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Over 2 million votes cast in New York City, the highest mayoral election turnout since 1969.
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Zohran Mamdani wins Democratic nomination and leads in the mayoral race against Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa.
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Mamdani is set to become NYC's first Muslim mayor and youngest in a century.
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Polls closed in Virginia at 7 p.m. ET, with Democrat Abigail Spanberger winning the governor's race.
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Democrats secure wins in multiple Virginia statewide offices, reflecting national political trends.
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The election serves as a key indicator ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
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President Trump endorsed Cuomo and criticized Mamdani, influencing voter discourse during the campaign.
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New York City mayoral race reflects broad ideological and generational divides in local politics.
Sources: NDTV, Al Jazeera, BBC, CBS News, Indian Express, New York Times, The Hill