Mamdani, Spanberger and Sherrill lead Democratic sweep in key races

Zohran Mamdani has become New York City’s next mayor, making history as the first Muslim, person of South Asian descent, and the youngest in over a century to lead the city.

The 34-year-old Ugandan-born Democratic socialist defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa in Tuesday’s election, according to the Associated Press.

President Donald Trump blamed Republican losses on the shutdown and his absence from the ballot, while threatening to cut funding to New York.

Democrat Abigail Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Earle-Sears to become Virginia’s first woman governor, winning 55.3% of the vote, according to the Associated Press. 

The 46-year-old former CIA operative and three-term congresswoman ran on a centrist platform focused on economic growth and unity, pledging to counter divisive national politics.

Democrat Mikie Sherrill won New Jersey’s governor race, defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli after a fiercely contested campaign.

Her victory signals resistance to President Trump’s growing influence, despite his improved performance in the 2024 election in the state.

The race saw over $100 million in ad spending, according to AdImpact, as both parties battled to appeal to Latino and working-class voters.

Exit polls showed 54% of New Jersey voters disapproved of Trump’s presidency, and Sherrill’s economic message on affordability and healthcare ultimately resonated with a majority of New Jerseyans.