Steve Cortes, Founder and President of the League of American Workers, has commented on the election of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, describing it as both a warning and a case study for the populist Right. He emphasized the need for renewed focus on affordability and media strategy. This statement was made on X.
“Explaining the Mamdani win, with polling,” said Cortes. “Mamdani is a threat, and he hates America — but he’s also a case study. So, we on the populist Right must assess him, outmaneuver him. Affordability agenda, new Media skills, domestic focus!”
According to Cortes, in his video statement on X, the election of Mayor Mamdani highlights broader economic frustration among voters. He said that affordability is a primary concern for the public, with working individuals experiencing financial pressure. These voters are seeking leaders who can address daily economic challenges and engage through modern media to shape voter perceptions and turnout across generational and regional lines in U.S. politics.
In his column for RealClearPolitics titled “Explaining Mamdani’s Appeal to the Young, With Polling,” Cortes referenced a national survey involving 2,100 voters aged 18–25. The survey indicated that young Americans have shifted significantly rightward since 2016. The data showed increasing dissatisfaction with the economy, low approval ratings for political leadership, and skepticism toward legacy media among younger voters nationwide across demographic lines.
Polling and analysis reveal growing dissatisfaction among New Yorkers with Mayor Mamdani’s proposed policies, which include tax hikes and expanded social spending. Many residents fear these measures could exacerbate affordability issues and drive away jobs. Nationally, younger voters are also moving rightward due to frustration with economic instability and disillusionment with traditional political institutions.
Cortes is not only the founder and president of the League of American Workers but also serves as a senior political advisor to CatholicVote. His previous roles include serving as a senior advisor to President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance, as well as working as an on-air commentator for Fox News and CNN. Additionally, he produces columns and documentaries focused on populist economic issues at Cortes Investigates.
