New York: As US voters head to state and local polls, Americans voted across several states on Tuesday to elect local leaders and decide key policy issues, with the New York mayoral race drawing national attention.
In New York, Zohair Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, leads a heated contest after defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Mayor Eric Adams in the primaries. Backed by young voters and progressive groups, Mamdani promises free city buses, a rent freeze, and higher taxes on the wealthy. He faces stiff competition from Cuomo, running as an independent, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
Polls show that Mamdani could lose if Cuomo and Sliwa joined forces, but Sliwa refuses to withdraw despite pressure from conservative circles. Mamdani’s outspoken socialist views, criticism of Israel, and association with Khalistan supporters have stirred controversy and divided voters.
Jewish and Hindu communities remain split, though some continue to support Mamdani to counter US President Donald Trump’s influence, which still dominates many local campaigns. Senior Democrats, including Barack Obama and Chuck Schumer, have avoided endorsing Mamdani, while others back Cuomo to contain the party’s internal rift.
In other key races, Democrat Abigail Spanberger holds a lead in Virginia over Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, and Democrat Mikie Sherrill edges ahead in New Jersey. Both contests reflect how national politics continues to shape local decisions.
Cities like Minneapolis, Detroit, Boston, and New Orleans are expected to stay with Democrats, while Republicans aim to retain Miami. These elections will test voter sentiment ahead of next year’s national polls and offer early clues about America’s shifting political landscape.
–IANS
