Zohran Mamdani, a longtime member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), is the mayor-elect of New York City, with his victory closely supported by the organization. Internal documents from the DSA’s Anti-War Working Group (AWWG) outline specific policy demands the group aims to advance through his upcoming administration.
The documents call for divesting city pension funds from Israeli bonds, ending contracts with companies that conduct business in Israel, and operating city-run grocery stores free from Israeli products. They also propose investigating real estate sales in the West Bank, evicting weapons manufacturers and transporters from the metropolitan area, and removing nonprofit status from charities that raise funds for the Israeli Defense Forces. Additional measures include ending NYPD training with the IDF, halting repression of demonstrators, and pursuing International Criminal Court warrants against Israeli leaders.
The planning documents indicate a structured approach, assigning committee members to draft and research each demand, monitor mayoral appointments, and coordinate outreach to smaller elected officials. Notes emphasize the importance of leveraging Mamdani’s campaign volunteer network and presenting actionable plans to the administration, while maintaining focus on policies rather than public statements.
Despite the DSA’s outlined priorities, Mamdani has publicly distinguished his platform from the national organization’s agenda. Spokesperson Dora Pekec clarified to The New York Times, “If Zohran has not publicly endorsed or spoken on a position during the campaign, it is not a part of his mayoral platform.” Grace Mausser, co-chairwoman of the NYC-DSA, emphasized that the group aims to collaborate with the mayor’s office on shared goals rather than enforce alignment on all issues, noting that “of course, there will be instances where we disagree. Zohran’s administration is not the same as NYC-DSA — we know that.”
Mamdani has previously expressed support for progressive reforms, including reducing certain NYPD operations and advocating for divestment from Israeli investments. Analysts observe that his election represents a notable moment for socialist influence in New York City governance, reflecting the growing role of organized leftist movements in local politics.
The mayor faces the challenge of balancing the DSA’s objectives with practical administration of the city. Observers continue to monitor how Mamdani’s leadership will integrate advocacy efforts, campaign commitments, and governance responsibilities in the nation’s largest city.
