Democrats dominate first elections under Trump's second term

The first large-scale elections in the US since Donald Trump returned to the White House took place and unexpectedly ended in a Republican defeat. The Democratic Party won three key races in New York, Virginia, and New Jersey.

Reuters reports.

Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, is the first Muslim mayor of the largest US city

Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, became the new mayor of New York City — the first Muslim to hold this position. He was supported by over two million voters, setting a record for city elections since 1969.

Journalists noted that Mamdani supports increasing taxes for corporations and wealthy Americans, creating free daycare, improving the transportation system, and freezing rent. Mamdani defeated former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent candidate and called his opponent a "radical leftist".

Trump threatened to cut funding and explained why he lost

Even before the results were announced, he called Mamdani "communist" and threatened to cut federal funding for New York.

"I’d rather have a bad Democrat than a Communist," Trump wrote.

He cited the prolonged government shutdown and his absence from the ballot as reasons for his loss. 

"TRUMP WASN'T ON THE BALLOT, AND SHUTDOWN, WERE THE TWO REASONS THAT REPUBLICANS LOST ELECTIONS TONIGHT," Trump wrote in Truth Social.

However, during his speech in Brooklyn, Mamdani thanked the voters and addressed the President of the United States directly:

"If anyone can show the nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him. Donald Trump, since I know you're watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up!" Mamdani said.

He also said that the era of New York politicians who "serve a few, leaving the rest behind" is ending.

Democrats retained power in Virginia and New Jersey

In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger won, replacing Republican Glenn Youngkin. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy won reelection, defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli.

Both candidates based their campaigns on criticizing Trump, emphasizing his responsibility for the longest government shutdown and strict immigration policies.

Analysts explained the surprising election results

They added that these elections were the first serious test of the political climate in the US after nine months of Trump's presidency. Although the Democrats won in traditionally "blue" states, their victories sent an important signal ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Democratic candidates addressed social and economic issues, such as rising prices, rent, and family support. Republicans, on the other hand, tried to mobilize voters by focusing on security and migration issues.

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