Zohran Mamdani’s surprise win in the Democratic mayoral primary over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo marks a political and cultural shift, highlighting voters’ rejection of Islamophobic attacks and pro-Israel establishment pressure, The Intercept reports.

Mamdani, a Muslim socialist and state assemblymember, faced repeated scrutiny for refusing to condemn the protest slogan “globalize the intifada,” instead clarifying it as a call for Palestinian rights.

He rebuffed efforts to define his identity and beliefs through a post-9/11 lens of suspicion. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand falsely accused him of calling for “global jihad” and dismissed the significance of his intent behind words, underscoring a double standard in political discourse.

Mamdani’s stance reflects a broader shift in Democratic sentiment, as younger, more progressive voters increasingly support Palestinian rights amid global outrage over the war in Gaza.

His victory signals a turning point for American politics, where pro-Palestinian advocacy may no longer be a disqualifier — but a mandate.

Read more at The Intercept.