New York(The COW News Digital) In a historic election, New Yorkers head to the polls today to choose their next mayor, with Muslim Democratic candidate Zahran Mamdani competing against Republican Curtis Silva and independent Andrew Cuomo. The contest has drawn international attention, marking a potential milestone in U.S. political history.
Ahead of polling, Mamdani led supporters in a march from Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall, emphasizing his campaign priorities, including reducing the cost of living in New York. In his address, he framed opposition from former President Donald Trump as motivation, appealing to voters for support. Despite high-profile resistance from Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk, Mamdani is seen as a strong contender to become the first Muslim mayor of New York City.
“This election is about providing New Yorkers with relief from rising living expenses and building a city that works for everyone,” Mamdani told supporters during the rally. Analysts note that his victory would represent not only a local political milestone but also a symbolic shift in the inclusivity of U.S. municipal politics.
Alongside New York, crucial gubernatorial elections are taking place in Virginia and New Jersey. In Virginia, Democratic candidate Ghazala Hashmi is running for Lieutenant Governor, potentially becoming the first Muslim and South Asian American woman to hold the position. Her husband, Azhar, hails from Karachi. Hashmi’s main rival is Republican Winsome Earle-Sears. Another key race in Virginia sees Democrat Abigail Spanberger competing against Earle-Sears for the lieutenant governor seat.
In New Jersey, Democratic leader Mikie Sherrill faces off against Republican former Assembly member Jack Ciattarelli, with polls suggesting a tight race but favoring the Democratic contender.
Meanwhile, in California, voters are set to determine how Proposition 50 will influence congressional districting ahead of next year’s midterm elections, with Governor Gavin Newsom asserting that widespread voter sentiment could impact the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives. Newsom also claimed that Trump’s unpopularity could result in Republican losses during the midterms.
Polling in most states began at 7 a.m. local time, with some locations opening as early as 5 a.m. or 10 a.m., and turnout is expected to play a decisive role in shaping both local and national political landscapes.
The elections in New York, Virginia, and New Jersey are being closely watched as they could redefine political representation, set historic precedents for minority candidates, and indicate broader trends ahead of next year’s midterm contests.
