Just when you thought the New York City mayoral race couldn’t get more intriguing, former President Barack Obama dials up a surprising contender.

Days before the general election on November 4, Obama reached out to Zohran Mamdani, the 34-year-old democratic socialist who clinched the Democratic primary in June 2025, sparking both curiosity and concern among political watchers, Daily Caller reported.

Let’s rewind to June, when Mamdani pulled off a stunning upset against former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary. Now, with Cuomo running as an independent and Republican Curtis Sliwa also in the mix, the race is a three-way brawl for the Big Apple’s top job.

Obama’s Call Raises Eyebrows Among Democrats

Fast forward to November 1, 2025, when Obama placed a call to Mamdani, offering what a campaign spokeswoman described as “President Obama’s words of support.” While the gesture might seem like a boost, it’s hard not to wonder if this is more about political optics than genuine alignment with Mamdani’s progressive agenda.

The Mamdani campaign was quick to frame the conversation as visionary, with the spokeswoman noting they discussed “the importance of bringing a new kind of politics to our city.” Call me old-fashioned, but isn’t running a city like New York more about nuts-and-bolts governance than lofty ideals?

Meanwhile, national Democrats seem to be tiptoeing around Mamdani like he’s a hot stove. Prominent figures like Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have stayed mum on endorsements, signaling a clear hesitation about his far-left platform.

Party Divisions on Full Display

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries did throw his support behind Mamdani on October 24, 2025, but others aren’t so convinced. Democrat Rep. Tom Suozzi, for instance, has backed Cuomo, showing just how fractured the party is.

Suozzi didn’t mince words, stating, “I’m a Democratic Capitalist, not a Democratic Socialist.” He argues that Mamdani’s resume is too thin to tackle a city as complex as New York, and frankly, it’s a critique that resonates when you consider the stakes.

Even more telling is the bipartisan support for Cuomo, with Republican Rep. Nick Langworthy also endorsing the former governor despite past disagreements. It’s rare to see such cross-party unity, which speaks volumes about the unease surrounding Mamdani’s candidacy.

Progressive Backers Rally for Mamdani

On the flip side, Mamdani has drawn heavy hitters from the progressive wing, with Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders and Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez campaigning for him recently. Sanders seems to think a Mamdani win could inspire movements far beyond New York’s borders.

Yet, this enthusiasm from the left only deepens the divide within the Democratic Party. Many centrists worry that Mamdani’s policies could alienate voters and jeopardize broader party goals, especially with the 2026 midterms looming and Republicans clinging to a slim House majority.

Let’s not forget the Republican angle in this race, with Curtis Sliwa offering a stark contrast to both Mamdani and Cuomo. While Sliwa’s platform may appeal to those fed up with progressive overreach, his chances in a heavily Democratic city remain a long shot.

Stakes High for NYC’s Future

What makes this race so compelling is the sheer unpredictability of it all. With Obama’s call stirring the pot, voters are left wondering if this is a genuine endorsement or just a polite gesture to keep party peace.

Ultimately, the outcome could send ripples through national politics, especially as both parties eye future battles. A Mamdani victory might embolden the progressive wing, but it risks alienating moderates who still value pragmatic governance over ideological purity.

For now, New Yorkers are left to decide between a democratic socialist with big ideas, a seasoned but controversial former governor, and a Republican underdog. As the election draws near, one thing is clear: the city’s future hangs in a delicate balance, and the choice couldn’t be more consequential.