UAW endorses Zohran Mamdani for mayor, supporting affordable living

Labor Union's Support Highlights Working-Class Priorities in NYC Mayoral Race

UAW President Shawn Fain emphasized the importance of a political movement prioritizing the working class, following the union's endorsement of Zohran Mamdani for mayor. "The working class is done with business as usual. We were proud to be the first union to endorse Zohran because it’s time for a political movement that puts the working class first. Our members spoke out and turned out in a big way — and we’re just getting started," Fain stated, recognizing both Mamdani's efforts and the mobilization of working-class New Yorkers.

To watch Fain's full video statement, click here.

UAW Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla underscored the shift in labor politics, suggesting that workers are seeking leaders who genuinely represent their interests. "The days of taking labor’s vote for granted are over. It’s time for labor to think about a bigger vision that lifts up and includes all working-class people. UAW members stepped up to fight for an affordable New York–and went to the mat for Zohran–because he made it clear whose side he’s on: workers," Mancilla explained.

Background

In December 2024, UAW Region 9A made headlines as the first union to back Zohran Mamdani in the NYC mayoral race. The union praised Mamdani's commitment to tackling New York’s high cost of living. His campaign promises, such as constructing affordable housing, implementing rent freezes, ensuring fast and free bus services, and offering universal childcare, resonated with UAW's mission to support the city's working-class citizens. On May 30, the union reiterated its endorsement, urging members to rank Mamdani first in the election, setting it apart as the sole major union to take such a stance.