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Zohran Mamdani Faces Challenges Without Obama’s Endorsement

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, faced headwinds after former President Barack Obama did not endorse him.
Mamdani acknowledged a phone conversation with Obama but emphasized his movement's significance.
He struggled to unite moderate Democrats, with Hochul and Jeffries slow to back him.
Mamdani also claimed U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Cuomo to undermine him, though Trump had said he would choose Cuomo over a "Communist".

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Story summary

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, faced headwinds after former President Barack Obama did not endorse him.
Mamdani acknowledged a phone conversation with Obama but emphasized his movement's significance.
He struggled to unite moderate Democrats, with Hochul and Jeffries slow to back him.
Mamdani also claimed U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Cuomo to undermine him, though Trump had said he would choose Cuomo over a "Communist".