From Hunger Strike to Mayor: How Zohran Mamdani's 15-Day Fast for NYC Taxi Drivers Launched His Historic Political Career

Nov 05, 2025 09:29 pm CST

In 2021, Zohran Mamdani, then a newly elected Assembly member, undertook a 15-day hunger strike to secure debt relief for New York City taxi drivers struggling with medallion loans. This act of solidarity proved pivotal in his political journey, helping pave the way for his historic election as New York City's youngest and first Muslim mayor. His advocacy created lasting bonds with the city's taxi workers, many from South Asian communities, demonstrating the power of grassroots activism in shaping political leadership.