New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani rejected calls to alter the U.S. Constitution so he could run for president, stating plainly that the document should remain unchanged.
In an interview aired Sunday on ABC News’ “This Week,” Mamdani, 34, dismissed the notion when pressed by anchor Jonathan Karl. “No,” he said. “I think the Constitution looks good the way it is.”
Mamdani, born in Uganda and naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 2018, is barred from the presidency under Article II, Section 1, which requires candidates to be natural-born citizens and at least 35 years old. He will turn 35 soon.
“I’m very excited to focus on New York City, but thank you for reminding me of my upcoming mortality,” Mamdani added.
Constitutional Limits and Mayoral Focus
The exchange came as Mamdani completes roughly six months in office after winning the 2025 mayoral race. During that campaign, he repeatedly criticized former Gov. Andrew Cuomo for allegedly eyeing higher office. Mamdani now faces similar scrutiny over his own national profile.
He has emerged as a leading voice among democratic socialists in the Democratic Party.
His comments Sunday signaled he has no immediate plans to test the constitutional restriction that has blocked other naturalized citizens from the presidency.
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Mamdani’s team did not respond to requests for additional comment on potential future ambitions.
Primary Wins Boost Socialist Wing
Last week, three candidates endorsed by Mamdani won Democratic primary elections in New York City. Brad Lander, Claire Valdez, and Darializa Avila Chevalier secured victories in competitive races, handing the mayor a concrete win over party moderates.
Mamdani described the results as evidence of a broader demand for left-leaning policies. “We are seeing a hunger that is not just felt by New Yorkers, but frankly by Americans from coast to coast, for a new kind of politics, one that puts working people at the heart of it,” he said.
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“The focus of her candidacy was about the struggle that working people are facing,” Mamdani said.
Stance on Prisons and Public Safety
When directly asked whether he supports abolishing prisons, Mamdani replied, “There are prisons.” He added that “Safety is not something that’s up for debate.”
The mayor has faced criticism for his handling of issues in New York City, including e-bikes, housing policy, and public safety. Republicans have sought to tie him to the most extreme elements of his party.
“Let them,” Mamdani said of GOP efforts to spotlight him. He pointed to policy deliverables in his first six months as proof of his approach.
Outlook for National Influence
Mamdani’s rising profile comes amid speculation about the 2028 presidential cycle. While he closed the door on a personal run Sunday, his influence within Democratic circles appears to be growing.
Mamdani has not ruled out future national roles short of the presidency. His Sunday interview, however, emphasized city priorities over constitutional debates.
The White House and national Democratic leadership have not commented on Mamdani’s latest remarks.
