Obama Holds Back Endorsement in NYC Mayoral Race
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has declined to publicly endorse frontrunner Zohran Mamdani in the 2025 2025 New York City mayoral election despite the two speaking by phone over the weekend. The conversation, described by campaign sources as “friendly,” saw Obama congratulate Mamdani on his campaign and offer to act as a “sounding board” should Mamdani win city hall. However, the former president stopped short of naming an endorsement or entering the fray in the local race.
What the Call Signifies
According to insiders, Obama praised Mamdani’s campaign strategy and discussed issues such as building a city administration and managing ambitious promises. While this interaction may be interpreted as showing support, the absence of a formal endorsement reflects Obama’s longstanding practice of limiting his public backing in municipal contests.
Why It Matters
Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state assembly member and progressive candidate, is set to take on former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa in the November 4 election. Obama’s decision to withhold an endorsement may influence undecided voters and temper expectations of unified Democratic backing. The move also underscores the high national stakes attributed to what is officially a local mayoral election.
Political Ripple Effects
Mamdani’s campaign has secured endorsements from key figures such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and current Governor Kathy Hochul, yet Obama’s silence highlights divisions within the broader Democratic establishment. Analysts say that while the phone call lends credibility to Mamdani, the lack of a formal endorsement may reflect caution among senior party figures about fully aligning with a candidate who identifies as a democratic socialist and promotes bold policy positions.
