New York City progressives were dealt a blow on Wednesday, just weeks after Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s landmark victory, as a more moderate Democrat announced she has enough support to become the next City Council speaker.

Newsweek reached out to Mamdani’s team for comment via email.

Why It Matters

Mamdani’s victory was a major win for progressives. Earlier in November, he defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa to become the leader of the nation’s largest city. But his ability to push his agenda through hinges on a cooperative city council. More moderate Democrats and Republicans on the council could block his policies, including free bus services and city-run grocery stores.

What To Know

Council Member Julie Menin, a Democrat

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