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[NYTimes | OPINION | GUEST ESSAY] If Zohran Mamdani Wins, Then What?
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Mr. Mamdani’s leftist agenda is far more rooted in the American tradition than his fiercest critics would ever admit.
The democratic socialism he embraces is not so different from the “sewer socialism” that found success in American cities a century ago, especially in Milwaukee. The Milwaukee socialists built a world-class parks system, added drinking water fountains, went after restaurant owners for serving contaminated food and forced factory owners to install heating systems and toilets. Just as important, they were never embroiled in corruption scandals. This should ultimately be Mr. Mamdani’s goal: to manage the city competently and fairly and to introduce beneficial public goods.
There cannot be any whiff of self-dealing or graft in the Mamdani administration. As much as many voters were thrilled by Mr. Mamdani’s campaign promises, including a rent freeze on rent-stabilized apartments, they also were drawn to the reform nature of his campaign, coming after four years of chaos from Mayor Eric Adams.
In addition, he cannot, as socialists sometimes do, attempt to abolish capitalism. He should seek, as best as he can, an outcome that leads to more wealth redistribution or at least makes life in New York slightly more affordable. The richest New Yorkers should emerge from a Mamdani administration largely unscathed because he is not seizing the means of production. They can keep making money. Some, in time, may even be charmed by him.
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