By Olivia Finlayson and Logan Smith

The election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as Mayor of New York City has sent shockwaves around the political world.

Mainstream establishment parties have taken notice of his metaphoric rise while left leaning leaders are wondering what they should be doing.

His victory will surely inspire leftwing movements around the world and within the United States.

Many leaders in the Democratic party were unwilling to endorse Mr Mamdani even after he had won the democratic primary elections in June 2025.

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer held back his endorsement the entirety of the election, seemingly unable to look past Mr Mamdani’s left wing positions.

His ambitious proposals include universal childcare and free bus travel along with other transformative polices that have been popular with voters who live in the city.

These policies are, overall, popular with the public in both the United States and here in the United Kingdom.

Even without the support of individuals within the establishment, his authentic campaign was able to overcome whatever was thrown at him.

His win comes off the back of Zach Polanski becoming leader of the Green’s in the UK. He, much like Mamdani, has focused on a strong social media campaign that has mobilised left wing voters.

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party [getty images]

Daisy Rose-Russell, 18, Edinburgh, said: “He had a good online campaign, I definitely saw it, I feel like that is how most people in the UK saw it.”

She has not followed the election, but she still knows who Mr Mamdani is and what he stands for, underlining the effectiveness of his online campaign.

Andrew Wilson, 21, Cambridge, said: “At least they stand for something, it is up to the people to decide what they stand for.”

It is true that for many in the UK, the election of the mayor of New York City is not something they would pay much attention to. However, his extensive online campaigning has been seen around the world.

Callum McNaughton, 22, Glasgow, said: “[the British] need something to get the publics approval at least, something that can unite people.”

He makes it clear that although Glasgow and the UK are far away from New York City, it is important to remember that ideas can spread.

Ben Richie, 21, Polmont, said: “New York is a massive power, so it will affect us in their [own] way, we should try copy [Mamdani] in what they do.”

Mr Mamdani’s campaign focused heavily on online advertising, with his team using flashy and colourful graphics. He was able to cultivate and advertise a strong brand, making him stand out from the other candidates.

His strong sense of character and his charismatic speaking style has inspired many on the left, giving them hope for something more successful in the UK.

Alexander Malcom, 18, Blackburn, said: “In my opinion, the fact he has been elected over there, it gives us hope over here for the left.”

Mr Mamdani’s win will surely leave both mainstream and left-wing parties with many questions to answer.

Can the UK learn from Zohran Mamdani’s recent win?