Mamdani Gets First Test, Results Have Been Mixed | RealClearPolitics
RealClearPolitics
by Ross Barkan, New York MagazineFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Six weeks into his tenure as New York City’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani has faced a series of high-profile challenges that have tested his leadership and decision-making skills. From navigating controversial incidents involving his appointees to addressing police-related shootings, Mamdani has had to balance the expectations of his progressive base with the realities of working within a more conservative political structure. His early months in office have been marked by both criticism and praise as he grapples with the complexities of managing one of the nation’s largest cities.
One of the most notable controversies arose when Mamdani stood by a top appointee who was under fire for old tweets that resurfaced from over half a decade ago. Despite the media attention and public backlash, Mamdani defended his decision to support the appointee, highlighting his commitment to loyalty and partnership within his administration. This stance has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his steadfastness while others question whether the tweets merited such a strong defense.
Another significant challenge for Mamdani has been responding to several police-involved shootings that have occurred during his tenure. As a self-identified democratic socialist, he has
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/14/2026