Zohran Mamdani, 34, made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor, winning in a landslide with over 1.03 million votes — more than all his opponents combined. His victory speech directly challenged Donald Trump, setting the tone for an intense political clash.

Before the election, Trump had called Mamdani “a pure communist” and warned that if he won, “it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home.” He urged voters to support Andrew Cuomo instead, saying, “You really have no choice.”

After a record voter turnout — the highest in over 50 years — Mamdani celebrated by saying, “New York will remain a city of immigrants, a city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants and as of tonight, led by an immigrant.” He ended with a jab at Trump: “Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!”

Trump quickly responded on Truth Social with a cryptic post: “…AND SO IT BEGINS!” sparking speculation about possible retaliation or federal funding cuts. Mamdani’s win marks a new era for New York — and possibly the beginning of a fierce political battle with Trump.