Zohran Mamdani is preparing to step into one of the most demanding roles in American politics as he gets ready to be sworn in as the next mayor of New York City on January 1. In the weeks leading up to the inauguration, fashion editor and cultural commentator Mel Ottenberg managed to secure a brief but lively sit-down with the Mayor-elect. The meeting took place just before Christmas at Mamdani’s transition office—a space that, according to Ottenberg, felt like a surreal blend of quirky film sets and modern corporate life.
Accompanied by Interview magazine photographer Lee Manning, Ottenberg had only ten minutes to chat. Still, the encounter left a strong impression. “It wasn’t much time,” Ottenberg admitted afterward, “but we hit it off immediately.” The relaxed exchange offered a glimpse into Mamdani’s personality, priorities, and sense of humor as he prepares to lead the city through a challenging new chapter.
Life on the Campaign Trail—and Beyond
When asked what a typical day looks like for him now, Mamdani described a structured yet fast-paced routine. Mornings begin with an extensive briefing package covering news updates, communications plans, and event schedules. From there, it’s a nonstop cycle of meetings, interviews, and strategy sessions.
“The transition period is intense,” he explained. “We’re constantly hiring, vetting, and building out the team. Every week brings new appointments and new responsibilities.”
Despite the demanding schedule, Mamdani remains energized. His secret weapon? A surprisingly relatable indulgence: sugar-free Red Bull. “I only allow myself one a week,” he joked, adding that his real motivation comes from the hope New Yorkers have placed in him.
That theme of responsibility and optimism carried throughout the conversation. Mamdani spoke passionately about the people he meets and the stories they share—reminders, he said, of why public service matters.
Style, Music, and a Touch of Humor
The discussion took a lighter turn when Ottenberg asked about Mamdani’s personal style. Dressed in a sharp suit, the Mayor-elect revealed that his outfit was a mix of practical and polished: a Uniqlo shirt paired with a tie and suit from Suitsupply.
When pressed to describe his look, Mamdani laughed and settled on one word: “Professional.”
Music also plays a role in his daily routine, though his taste doesn’t always match his wife’s preference for calm mornings. “I’m more likely to listen to Kim Petras, Lil Wayne, or Madonna first thing in the morning,” he admitted with a grin.
Tackling New York’s Biggest Issues
The conversation eventually shifted to serious matters facing the city. Ottenberg brought up two long-standing frustrations for many New Yorkers: empty storefronts and endless scaffolding.
Mamdani acknowledged both problems head-on. He described vacant retail spaces as more than just an economic issue, noting that they affect neighborhood character and even public safety. “When storefronts sit empty, communities lose their vibrancy,” he said. His administration, he promised, will focus on supporting small businesses, reducing fines, and creating incentives to keep commercial spaces active.
On the subject of scaffolding, Mamdani admitted he doesn’t know the exact economic figures—but he understands the frustration. “It’s not just private buildings,” he noted. “City properties have had scaffolding up for years. Fixing that will be one of our early priorities.”
Optimism for the Future
As the interview wound down, Ottenberg asked how Mamdani manages to stay optimistic in such a demanding role. His answer was simple: people.
“The excitement others feel about this moment is contagious,” he said. “We all love this city. Even when we face its problems, we never forget what makes it special.”
From affordability to childcare to public transit, Mamdani laid out ambitious goals for his upcoming term. He spoke about freezing rent for stabilized apartments, expanding universal childcare, and improving access to transportation—all part of his vision to make New York more livable for everyday residents.
By the end of the brief meeting, it was clear that both interviewer and interviewee had enjoyed the exchange. The discussion may have lasted only minutes, but it captured a hopeful moment in the city’s political life.
