A nonprofit formed to sustain the grassroots momentum behind New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s campaign is facing significant internal upheaval, with nearly all of its staff departing within months of its launch.
Our Time NYC, a 501(c)(4) organization established by members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) following Mamdani’s election, has seen a wave of resignations that leaves Communications Director Jesse Myerson as its only remaining full-time staff member. Board member Emma Saltzberg confirmed that several top officials, including executive director Jeremy Freeman, have exited in recent months.
Saltzberg indicated the group is reassessing its direction, describing the current period as “a moment of pausing, reflecting, adjusting to meet the moment.” Freeman, who stepped down, stated he left to pursue other opportunities but remains confident in the organization’s mission to advance affordability policies.
The group launched with the goal of mobilizing tens of thousands of volunteers from Mamdani’s campaign. However, overlapping efforts from the DSA and other progressive organizations appear to have diluted its role. DSA membership has continued to grow rapidly, drawing many of the most active supporters.
Observers note that Our Time also struggled to generate momentum independently. A February “Tax the Rich” rally in Albany drew lower-than-expected turnout, and Mamdani did not attend, reportedly to avoid complicating negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul.
Political analysts suggest the organization’s unclear positioning has hindered its sustainability. Some supporters who initially engaged have since shifted to other campaigns or groups.
Despite the setbacks, Our Time’s leadership maintains it is undergoing a strategic reassessment aimed at redefining how it can effectively support the mayor’s policy agenda and broader political movement.
