Hundreds of New Yorkers rallied Sunday in Union Square to support mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s progressive agenda, calling to “Tax the Rich” as he prepares to take office on January 1. The event highlighted grassroots support for universal childcare, free public transport, rent freezes, and city-run grocery stores. In tandem, Mamdani’s transition team raised approximately $1 million in just 10 days from more than 12,000 donors, signaling strong financial backing from everyday New Yorkers.
Rally Supports Progressive Agenda
The “Tax the Rich, Seize Our Future” rally was co-sponsored by the NYC chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, Housing Justice For All, NYS Tenant Bloc, Jewish Voice for Peace NYC, UAW Region 9A, and the Invest in Our New Coalition. Participants voiced support for Mamdani’s proposals, emphasizing that funding from wealthier individuals and corporations is essential to implementing citywide progressive policies.
Calls for Wealthy Taxes
During the rally, organizers emphasized taxing the city’s wealthiest to fund universal public goods. “To build the universal public goods we deserve, we need to ensure the wealthiest individuals and corporations in our state are paying their fair share in taxes,” said the NYC-DSA. Activists like Danny Zaldes urged participants to pressure Albany to prioritize working New Yorkers over billionaire donors.
Political Endorsements
Democratic state Sen. Jabari Brisport addressed the crowd, saying, “As we know, power concedes nothing without a demand, and today we demand to tax the rich!” His remarks reinforced the coalition’s mission to maintain strong grassroots pressure as Mamdani transitions into municipal leadership.
Crowdfunding Transition
Mamdani’s transition office has raised $1 million from over 12,000 individuals in just 10 days, with an average donation of $77. “None of this would have been possible without everyday New Yorkers willing to spare $5, $10, or $20 to help build a government that will deliver for working people,” said Mamdani. The funds are intended for the recruitment and retention of staff during the transition period.
Comparing Past Administrations
The fundraising success contrasts sharply with previous mayoral transitions. Eric Adams’ transition had 884 individual donors, averaging over $1,000 per gift, while Bill de Blasio’s had 820 donors with an average of $2,392. Mamdani’s approach emphasizes mass participation over large single donations, highlighting a populist, grassroots strategy.
Building Grassroots Support
The rally also marked the launch of a coalition campaign to ensure Mamdani maintains strong public support as he assumes office. “More than 12,000 New Yorkers are contributing to this transition to turn the page on the politics of the past and build a new era for New York City,” said Elana Leopold, executive director of Mamdani’s transition.
Vision for Affordable City
Mamdani stressed that ordinary New Yorkers’ contributions are key to realizing his vision. “I’m grateful for every dollar New Yorkers have contributed to make this vision of an affordable, more livable city a reality,” he said, signaling a continued focus on cost-of-living reforms and public programs for working families.