Zohran Mamdani Isn’t Even Trying

A genuine attempt to engage with the New Yorkers outside Zohran Mamdani’s cheering section would probably preclude forums like Al Sharpton’s weekend MSNBC show. Nevertheless, it was there that the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor was asked to explain to the precious few skeptics in Sharpton’s audience what he planned to do with their money and why they should stick around to enjoy the utopia he intends to build.

“How do you get them to stay?” Sharpton asked on behalf of city residents with means. “In part by showing them that asking them to pay more in taxes would increase even their quality of life,” Mamdani replied.

About the Author

Noah Rothman

Noah Rothman is a senior writer at National Review. His third book, Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence, was published by Hachette in May 2026.

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A genuine attempt to engage with the New Yorkers outside Zohran Mamdani’s cheering section would probably preclude forums like Al Sharpton’s weekend MSNBC show. Nevertheless, it was there that the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor was asked to explain to the precious few skeptics in Sharpton’s audience what he planned to do with their money and why they should stick around to enjoy the utopia he intends to build.

“How do you get them to stay?” Sharpton asked on behalf of city residents with means. “In part by showing them that asking them to pay more in taxes would increase even their quality of life,” Mamdani replied.

About the Author

Noah Rothman

Noah Rothman is a senior writer at National Review. His third book, Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence, was published by Hachette in May 2026.