Less than a decade ago, Zohran Mamdani was a “C-list rapper” joking about living rent-free in his Manhattan apartment near Columbia University, where his father teaches political science and African studies.
The 33-year-old New York state assemblyman is now a step away from being the next mayor of New York City.
Mr. Mamdani steamrolled one of the state’s most infamous political figures in the Democratic primary by vowing to make the city more affordable through rent freezes, free bus service, free child care and city-run grocery stores.
His rise from a little-known state lawmaker with a thin legislative record and limited work history to a political rock star has left the Democratic Party establishment reeling.
Still, the big question is whether he is a flash in the pan or a glimpse into the future, and whether such an inexperienced person, albeit with charisma and strong political instincts, is equipped to