Socialist Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, traveled to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday to court support from influential Democrats following his primary win, the New York Post reports. The visit centered around a breakfast event organized by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent supporter who encouraged party colleagues to meet Mamdani in person and consider his vision for the city.
The breakfast was held at the AC Hotel in Navy Yard, attracting mainly left-leaning lawmakers, including Reps. Jerry Nadler and Nydia Velazquez, both of whom have endorsed Mamdani. Some moderate Democrats, however, have expressed reservations about Mamdani’s democratic socialist platform, with concerns about national implications for the party. Ocasio-Cortez said she hoped the event would unite Democrats and rally support behind Mamdani, although leading figures like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Leader Chuck Schumer have held back from formally endorsing him so far and reportedly plan to meet him later in New York.
Despite some skepticism, those present at the breakfast described the atmosphere as upbeat and productive, with attendees praising Mamdani’s authenticity and communication skills. Ocasio-Cortez and others urged fellow Democrats to judge Mamdani based on direct engagement rather than media portrayals.
Mamdani reportedly received high praise at the event with attendees touting his socialist plan for New York City should he win the election. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash) said “Zohran Mamdani is an incredible talent. He’s going to be a great mayor for New York City. I was proud to endorse him before the primary,” adding that “Anybody that’s staying out at this point instead of endorsing this incredible dynamic leader is missing an opportunity.”
Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA) also proudly welcomed the socialist, writing on X, “@Zohran Mamdani got an energetic and welcoming reception in DC this morning. Huge thanks to @AOC for organizing the breakfast. Proud of our Democratic nominee for NYC mayor. Let’s win!”
The meeting marks an apparent effort by progressive leaders to consolidate party support ahead of the general election.
