Portside

If Mamdani becomes mayor, he’ll have the chance to prove something few American socialists have ever gotten close enough to power to demonstrate: that progressive values aren’t just compatible with effective governance—they’re strengthened by it.

It’s clear that Donald Trump will aim to make governance as difficult as possible for Zohran Mamdani’s potential New York City mayoralty. But Mamdani has a range of options available to counter the president’s attacks.

Leftists need a new (old) pitch to lead America’s cities.