In a pivotal moment for New York City politics, the Indian American Impact Fund endorsed Zohran Mamdani for mayor on June 11, 2025, marking a significant move in the race against former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The organization, which champions Indian American and South Asian political representation, praised Mamdani for bringing fresh, transformative energy to city leadership.
“Mamdani brings a people-first perspective to New York’s future,” the group said in its endorsement, citing his strong ties to the city’s working- and middle-class neighborhoods. A democratic socialist and current State Assemblymember, Mamdani was born in Uganda and raised in New York City, and he is known for advocating policies that center equity and justice.
The endorsement reflects the growing political clout of New York’s South Asian community, which now numbers over 447,000 residents—the largest in any American city. Impact Fund officials stressed that this sizable electorate has often been neglected in city politics, despite its potential to sway outcomes.
Chintan Patel, Executive Director of the Impact Fund, emphasized the urgency of Mamdani’s platform. “He’s focused on the real economic struggles New Yorkers face—from housing to affordability—and he speaks directly to the needs of the South Asian diaspora and beyond,” Patel said in a press release.
Calling Mamdani a “fighter for fairness,” Patel noted that the campaign is not only about electoral victory, but also about reshaping who has influence in City Hall. “We’re proud to support a candidate who sees our community, listens to it, and is ready to fight for it.”
Mamdani responded with gratitude, calling the endorsement both “an honor” and a reflection of shared values. “As a South Asian, immigrant, and Muslim, I understand how critical it is to have leaders who mirror our lived experiences,” he said. “My campaign is about creating a government that truly represents all New Yorkers—especially those who’ve long been overlooked.”
Founded in 2016, the Indian American Impact Fund has backed over 200 candidates nationwide and directed more than $20 million toward campaigns, civic engagement, and policy advocacy. Its support for Mamdani signals a significant mobilization effort ahead of what is expected to be a high-stakes mayoral showdown.
