The far-left political institutions backing socialist Zohran Mamdani, the Democrat nominee for New York City Mayor, are heavily funded by radical billionaire George Soros and his dark money network, data reveals. The Working Families Party, a progressive third party, has received $37 million from Soros’s Open Society Foundations since 2016, enabling it to influence Democratic Party politics and elevate candidates like Mamdani. Despite Mamdani’s public criticism of dark money in politics, his campaign has benefited directly and indirectly from Soros’s network.
Mamdani’s connections extend beyond Soros. His campaign has received support from former President Barack Obama and key Democratic figures like Patrick Gaspard, who previously led Open Society Foundations and served as Obama’s national political director. Obama personally congratulated Mamdani after his primary win, offering advice and encouragement. Meanwhile, New York Mayor Eric Adams accused Mamdani of hypocrisy, stating he “benefits from millions in support from billionaires” while condemning wealth. Republican mayoral nominee Curtis Sliwa echoed these claims, alleging Mamdani targets only billionaires who oppose his agenda.
Finance records show that the Working Families Party National PAC spent $539,616 attacking Mamdani’s primary opponent, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, while another group, New Yorkers for Lower Costs, promoted Mamdani with $893,877 in funding. The PACs’ expenditures highlight the role of wealthy donors and radical networks in shaping the race.
