Read this Q&A in Spanish on El Deadline.
Just days before the New York City mayoral election, Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani continues to hold a double-digit lead over his rivals. Yet within his inner circle, there is a clear understanding that favorable polls do not guarantee victory. On the contrary, the final stretch of the campaign requires doubling down on efforts to convince New Yorkers to head to the polls on November 4.
That inner circle consists of no more than 30 people. Among them is Ali Najmi, whom Mamdani has referred to as his “brother.” Najmi’s leadership as Mamdani’s election attorney helped secure the Democratic nomination for mayor in the June 24 primaries. He ensured that Mamdani obtained the required petition signatures by the deadline and against the clock.
But their relationship goes back years. Exactly a decade ago, Najmi ran for New York City Council in District 23, in eastern Queens. At that time, a 23-year-old Mamdani joined his campaign—his first step into local politics.
“I knew then that there was something special about him; he already had that thousand-watt smile,” Najmi recalls.
The young politicians learned valuable lessons from that campaign. Although Najmi didn’t win the election, “the campaign was a true success in paving the way for young people from the Muslim community,” said the criminal lawyer, who was born and raised in Glen Oaks, Queens, from Pakistani descent.
Another lesson from that time: By 2015, both had managed to make Najmi’s name and proposals relatable to voters. But surprises always happen—like when a woman approached them and said, “Sure, I know you. But wait—are the elections today?”
That’s why now they keep their eyes on November 4. We spoke with Najmi about it all. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
In recent months, polls have shown Zohran Mamdani with a double-digit lead. What do you attribute his impact on New Yorkers to?
He has a message that truly resonates with the people of New York City. His level of charisma and ability to connect with others are undeniable. The important thing is that, in politics, people don’t always remember what you said—they remember how you made them feel. And everyone has a great feeling about Zohran.
You’ve said he’s like a brother to you. How has your relationship evolved over the ten years you’ve known each other?
We’ve developed a close and strong relationship. We have been working strongly together since I invited him to join my City Council campaign in 2015. I look forward to helping him develop a great government for the city of New York.
Both of you have spoken proudly about being Muslim. What does that mean to you?
It’s about being authentic—being yourself, standing up for your values and your rights. A clear example is the devastation of Palestinians. Just a few years ago, many would have thought that defending Palestinian rights carried serious political and professional risks. Zohran has shown that it’s possible to be authentic, unapologetically stand for human rights and still achieve a great success like being the mayor of New York.
How was your role as election lawyer crucial in legitimizing Mamdani’s campaign?
Like in any campaign, there’s a bunch of compliance that need to be done. There are ballot access issues, getting on the ballots. Every campaign must meet a range of legal requirements—budget limits, donation caps, financial disclosures. I also oversaw everything related to ballot access and petition submissions—the signatures needed to get a candidate’s name on the ballot. You must also comply with regulations from the Board of Elections and the Campaign Finance Board. That’s been my job, and it’s essential in any campaign.
Tell me about the founding and work of the Muslim Democratic Club of New York (MDCNY)
We founded the club in 2013 with a group of colleagues who were active in politics and government and are still. Faiza Ali [Co-Director of Community Outreach at New York City Hall], Aliya Latif [Board Member of the Muslim Democratic Club of New York], and Linda Sarsour [Co-founder and Executive Director of MPower Change], among others.
From the start, we’ve sought to mobilize the Muslim community and boost local candidacies. We’ve had a wild success—Zohran’s campaign is one example, but also Shahana Hanif’s, the City Council member for District 39 in Brooklyn and the first Bangladeshi woman elected to the New York City Council.
You’re also a respected criminal lawyer. What changes do you think are most urgent in the city’s justice system?
I truly believe in Zohran’s plan to create a Department of Community Safety. People struggling with mental health issues need peace—they need something different from someone breaking into their houses. When we see people on the streets, emotionally distressed and talking to themselves, the last thing they need is to be handcuffed.
What message would you give to young New York voters?
Zohran has always been a powerful example of the importance of dreaming big and believing in yourself. That message will inspire many young people to run for office themselves.