As a radical political movement dedicated to fostering a progressive future in Europe and beyond, we have always embraced discussions that challenge the status quo. Our latest livestream discussion did just that as, together with American economist Richard D. Wolff and our very own Yanis Varoufakis, we unpacked the astounding victory of Zohran Mamdani as New York’s first Muslim, South Asian, and youngest mayor in over a century.
His election signifies more than just a political milestone; it’s a beacon of hope for the left, not only in the US but also across Europe.
A socialist victory against the odds
Our host Mehran Khalili set the stage by highlighting the core issues that propelled Mamdani to victory, despite formidable opposition and a lack of endorsement from top Democrats.
“Mamdani is a self-described democratic socialist who won on affordability, freezing rents, expanding childcare, making buses free, and piloting city run grocery stores.” Khalili reminded us, as well as Mamdani’s pro-Palestine stance in a city with the world’s largest Jewish population outside Israel.
Wolff elaborated on this, likening Mamdani’s victory to “a bear coming out of hibernation” as it heralded the return of socialism in American politics. Wolff credited Bernie Sanders for breaking the taboo around socialism, paving the way for Mamdani’s success.
Varoufakis chimed in with a historical perspective, warning against romanticising Mamdani’s triumph as the beginning of a utopian era. Instead, he urged a dialectical approach that combines celebration with cautious optimism, reminding us of the challenges faced by past socialist movements when they entered positions of power. “Free buses are crucial for municipal socialism, but… only one small step,” he asserted.
Navigating the challenges ahead
A recurring theme in the conversation was whether Mamdani could deliver on his promises amidst an entrenched political and economic establishment. Wolff was optimistic, arguing that “yes, he can deliver… even without raising taxes on the rich.”
He elaborated on the complexities of municipal governance, suggesting that the power Mamdani holds is far more substantial than many might assume.
Varoufakis supported this notion by sharing successful progressive experiments from around the world. He highlighted Singapore‘s innovative use of congestion charges to fund free public transportation as a model Mamdani might consider.
“We need to look at what rebel cities have done,” he urged, advocating for creative and redistributive funding mechanisms.
As our discussion unfolded, so did the realisation that Mamdani isn’t just a local phenomenon. His victory represents a broader shift, capturing the same “pool of discontent” that previously fueled Donald Trump’s rise to power. But unlike Trump, Mamdani seeks to genuinely address the inequalities and injustices affecting the working class.
Building on momentum for lasting change
In closing remarks, Wolff acknowledged the timing and momentum behind this pivotal moment in US politics. Wolff pointed to the historical precedent set during the Great Depression when leftist policies gained traction. “The question is, can we do it again?” he asked, implicitly challenging us to seize this opportunity for lasting change.
He finally called on Mamdani to seize on the recent slip-ups of Trump: “One of the most important things we should keep in mind as we follow Mamdani is whether he can capture the gains, the externalities of Mr. Trump’s self-destruction,” Wolff said. “If he can, he will be vaulted into a place in the United States, which will make all of you have even more [benefit] programs.”
This conversation was not only an exploration of Mamdani’s electoral victory but also a broader reflection on the potential for socialist frameworks to gain traction in today’s complex political landscape. It serves as a reminder that real change requires not just celebration, but sustained effort and strategic action.
Join us at DiEM25 as we continue to engage in these vital discussions, challenging conventions and advocating for a more equitable future.
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