Zohran Mamdani, a socialist candidate, is the likely next mayor of New York City following his securing of the Democratic nomination in June 2025. Mamdani has openly advocated for socialism and has expressed intentions to raise taxes despite acknowledging New York City's shrinking tax base amid population losses to high-tax states. His campaign has attracted both praise and criticism; MSNBC and Al Sharpton have endorsed him as a future leader of the Democratic Party, while moderate Democrats remain wary of his progressive stance. Mamdani's rise has drawn comparisons to Donald Trump's early political profile, characterized by strong media presence and polarized public opinion. His campaign has reportedly been supported by a network of tax-exempt organizations funded by George Soros and Silicon Valley billionaires, with allegations of a $2 billion backing. Mamdani has positioned himself as appealing beyond traditional Democratic voters by promising that government can address voters' material needs. In contrast, a Cuban-born businessman has entered the mayoral race, describing himself as the 'polar opposite' of Mamdani.