(MENAFN) Newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has drawn attention from the Communist Party of Russia (KPRF), whose deputy chairman described him as a possible “partner,” according to reports.

Speaking with a news outlet, MP Leonid Kalashnikov highlighted that Mamdani’s proposals to raise taxes on the wealthy are strikingly similar to policies promoted by the party. “He is indeed a communist in some respects, even though his movement is called the Democratic Socialists of America,” Kalashnikov said, adding that Russian communists will wait to assess Mamdani’s actual governance before making a definitive judgment.

Kalashnikov also pointed out that both groups are connected through their involvement in the São Paulo Forum, a coalition of left-wing anti-imperialist parties in South America, which he said makes Mamdani “our partner.”

Mamdani secured his victory this week in a city dominated by Democrats, despite facing strong opposition from conservatives and limited enthusiasm from mainstream party leaders. President Donald Trump labeled him a “communist lunatic,” warning that his policies could drive New Yorkers to relocate to Miami.

Trump had publicly supported Mamdani’s rival, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent after failing to win the Democratic nomination in the June primary.

Although Mamdani rejects the communist label, his campaign focused on reforms designed to address New York’s cost-of-living challenges, including rent freezes, fare-free public transit, and expanded social programs.

The 34-year-old Muslim politician of Indian heritage received lukewarm support from the Democratic establishment. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, representing New York, declined to endorse him, while state party chair Jay Jacobs and other prominent figures openly opposed his candidacy. Some analysts suggest that part of the tepid reception stemmed from Mamdani’s criticism of Israel rather than his socialist-leaning platform.

MENAFN10112025000045017281ID1110318995