UAW Statement on New York Mayoral Primary Race

“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. Congratulations to Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla on an exceptional field operation. Congratulations to Zohran for building a movement, and congratulations to the working-class New Yorkers for showing the world that when we unite and stand up nobody can stand in our way!” UAW President Shawn Fain

Video statement can be found here.

“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.” UAW Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla

Background
In December 2024, UAW Region 9A became the first union to endorse Zohran Mamdani for mayor, recognizing that his campaign squarely confronted New York’s cost-of-living crisis. His platform—to build affordable housing, freeze rents, make buses fast and free, and provide universal childcare—echoed UAW’s demands to make life affordable for working-class New Yorkers, most of whom are renters and commuters. On May 30, UAW Region 9A reaffirmed its support, urging NYC UAW households to rank Mamdani first—making it the only major union to do so.