Zohran Mamdani’s Unapologetic Response To Being Asked If He “Likes” Capitalism Is Going Viral

June 28, 2025 Admin

This week, 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani — a self-proclaimed democratic socialist — won the New York City Mayoral Democratic Primary, beating out former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

A smiling man in a suit and tie gestures openly while walking with a woman in a casual striped shirt on a city street — Bloomberg / Bloomberg via Getty Images

Since his victory, Mamdani has faced backlash from both Republicans and Democrats in his own party. President Donald Trump called his victory a “terrible thing for our country,” while Democratic lawmaker Laura Gillen called Mamdani the “absolute wrong choice for New York.”

Some of Mamdani’s political stances as a democratic socialist have been questioned, and in a now-viral clip from a recent interview with CNN, he was put on the spot regarding his beliefs. “Do you like capitalism?” the host questioned.

Two news anchors are engaged in a discussion in a CNN studio. The headline reads, "Cuomo Staying in Race, Adams Re-Launches Bid After Stunner."

“No. I have many critiques of capitalism.”

Two individuals are having a discussion on CNN. The headline reads, "Mamdani on if he likes capitalism: 'No, I have many critiques'."

“I think ultimately, the definition for me, of why I call myself a democratic socialist, is the words of Dr. King decades ago. He said, ‘Call it democracy or call it democratic socialism; there must be a better distribution of wealth for all of God’s children in this country.'”

Person on CNN discussing critiques of capitalism as a New York mayoral candidate. Breaking news banner displayed

“And that’s what I’m focused on, is dignity and taking on income inequality.”

Man discusses critiques of capitalism on a news show. CNN banner displays "Mamdani on if he likes capitalism: 'No, I have many critiques'."

In response to the clip, many people online have praised Mamdani for being willing to say something so controversial in American politics. “Thank god we have a politician who is finally brave enough to say that yeah capitalism does fucking suck actually,” one person wrote in response to the clip.

Tweet featuring a screenshot from CNN of activist Zohran Mamdani discussing critiques of capitalism, with a humorous caption about political bravery — CNN / @skuchta28 / Via x.com

“I saw him say this on CNN and my jaw dropped. They straight up asked him if he ‘likes capitalism’ and he said ‘no.’ And I don’t think that’s gonna be a problem for him! Watershed moment,” another person agreed.

Tweet discussing a surprise at someone openly rejecting capitalism on CNN, viewed as a significant moment — @hecubian_devil / Via x.com

“One of my favorite things that Zohran does is that he has a quote for everything. A lot of times, they’re from people like Mandela and MLK, figures whose progressive ideals often get downplayed. Try to critique this take and now you look like an anti-MLK asshole. Good stuff,’ this person wrote.