26 Billionaires Spent Millions to Block Zahran Mamdani’s Election as New York Mayor

New York:An American newspaper has revealed that **26 billionaires and billionaire families collectively spent over $22 million** in an attempt to **prevent Zahran Mamdani from becoming New York City’s mayor**, but their efforts failed as Mamdani emerged victorious.
According to the report, **former mayor Michael Bloomberg** contributed **$1.5 million** to the campaign of Mamdani’s rival, **Andrew Cuomo**, to strengthen his challenge. Despite the massive financial push, **Mamdani maintained a strong lead in all major polls** throughout the campaign.
Only **two billionaires supported Mamdani** — philanthropist **Elizabeth Simons**, who donated **$250,000**, and **GitHub co-founder Tom Preston-Werner**, who contributed **$20,000** to his campaign, both playing a crucial role in his eventual victory.
Following Mamdani’s historic win as **New York’s first Muslim and youngest mayor**, several wealthy business figures in the city have now offered cautious support.
Prominent billionaire **Bill Ackman**, previously one of Mamdani’s fiercest critics, has **softened his tone** and extended an offer of cooperation. Meanwhile, **Wall Street heavyweight Ralph Schlosstein** remarked that “after a tough election season, it’s time for New York to come together.”