New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, met with about 100 influential business leaders from the Partnership for New York City. The session was closely watched, as Mamdani, who recently upset former governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, addressed some of the most politically charged criticisms leveled against him.
Top of the agenda was his stance on the phrase “globalize the intifada”—a slogan invoked by anti-Israel demonstrators and often viewed as a reference to the violent Palestinian uprisings against Israel. Mamdani, a prominent Palestinian rights activist, had previously declined to denounce the phrase publicly, drawing sharp rebuke from some corners, including Jewish leaders and parts of the city’s business elite.
At the breakfast, moderated by Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, Mamdani responded directly to pressure from Bourla by stating he would now begin to discourage the use of the phrase, signaling a shift from his earlier refusal to comment. Nevertheless, the topic underscored the tension between Mamdani’s activist roots and the expectations of the business community.
Reaffirming Progressive Ambitions
Beyond the controversy, Mamdani stood firm on the progressive policy agenda that propelled his campaign:
Affordable Housing & Transit: Mamdani reiterated his commitment to freezing rents on affordable housing units and making city buses free.
Public Grocery Stores: He advocated for city-operated grocery stores to combat food insecurity.
Progressive Taxation: Central to his platform is raising taxes on corporations and high-income individuals to fund social programs. When questioned about potential “wealth flight,” Mamdani dismissed fears, asserting that wealthy New Yorkers would remain in the city despite increased taxes.
Dialogue with Corporate Powerhouses
Mamdani’s interaction with the city’s business engine was direct and, at times, challenging. The meeting included major industry players: Loews Corp. chairman James Tisch, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Hearst CEO Steve Swartz, Related Cos CEO Jeff Blau, and Centerview Partners co-founder Blair Effron, among others.
When asked if he would retain current police commissioner Jessica Tisch (James Tisch’s daughter), Mamdani responded he’d consider it but made no commitment. He emphasized his willingness to listen, but indicated that policy decisions would be driven by his progressive values.
Fiscal Policy and Education Reform
Addressing concerns over government spending, Mamdani promised a fresh look at the New York City Department of Education, vowing to root out waste and eliminate duplicative programs. He also floated the idea of leveraging events like the World Cup to bolster city infrastructure.
Campaign spokesperson Jeffrey Lerner reflected on the session, describing it as “constructive” and affirming Mamdani’s intent to collaborate—even amid strong disagreements about fiscal policy. “Zohran continues to believe that working in partnership is the best way to deliver an affordable city for all New Yorkers,” Lerner stated.
A Pivotal Race for City Hall
With the Democratic nominee typically holding a strong advantage in New York City, Mamdani’s candidacy is seen as especially consequential this year. The upcoming November election features a crowded field: incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, Andrew Cuomo, attorney Jim Walden (all running as independents), and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
Mamdani’s efforts to reassure—and challenge—the city’s business leadership mark an important moment in what is shaping up to be one of New York City’s most closely watched and ideologically charged elections in recent memory.
