On November 4th, 2025, Zohran Mamdani defeated Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa in the New York City Mayoral Election to become the new Mayor of New York City. Mamdani was sworn in on January 1st, 2026, by Bernie Sanders. Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic-socialist, ran on affordability for the working class. During his campaign, Mamdani made promises to freeze-rent, make city buses free, create city-run grocery stores, and enact universal childcare. He has also pushed to increase the minimum wage by almost 100%, as well as build new affordable housing units throughout the City using exclusively unionized labor. Whether or not Mamdani will be able to follow through on these promises, it is clear, as a democratic-socialist, he is a strong supporter of organized labor and would like to see the number of union workers in New York City increase.
As mayor, Mamdani does not have any direct control over the unionization of workers, however, he can have an influential voice and advocate. Mayors of New York City have a large platform, as the leader of one of the financial capitals of the world. Unionization begins with getting the word out and convincing workers that unionizing is in their best interests. Mamdani has clearly started to do just this. However, unionization in New York City has not been popular in recent years. Under 20% of workers in New York City were unionized as of 2024, a number that has been steadily decreasing for decades.
In early December 2025, a month before he got sworn in as Mayor, Mamdani was seen backing the Starbucks strike by joining the picket lines and publicly calling for a boycott of Starbucks. Alongside Mamdani was fellow democratic socialist, Bernie Sanders. Sanders and Mamdani have similar politics that have resonated with younger people in the United States, especially New Yorkers. The effect of Mamdani’s presence is yet to be seen, however it is abundantly clear that one of his priorities as Mayor of New York City is to support unions against their employers to obtain better wages and benefits.
One concrete policy tool Mamdani may use to strengthen unions is the implementation of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on city-funded construction projects. PLAs are pre-hire agreements that set union wage standards, benefits, and working conditions for specific projects based on the average amount paid under local union contracts. By requiring PLAs on affordable housing developments and other public works, the City can practically ensure these projects are built by union labor. This approach could significantly increase union membership in the New York City construction. However, PLAs are controversial. Critics argue PLAs raise construction costs and slow the pace of housing development. Balancing increased labor standards for construction workers with the urgent need for affordable housing will be a key challenge for the Mamdani Administration.
Mamdani’s election signals a more union friendly political environment in New York City. Employers should be prepared for increased worker unionization in all sectors across the City, stronger public support for unions, and greater scrutiny of employer labor practices. Businesses involved in City funded projects should closely monitor policies such as Project Labor Agreements, which may affect labor costs and hiring requirements. Even without major legal changes, employers are likely to face rising expectations around wages, benefits, and workplace conditions, making proactive labor relations and compliance increasingly important.
Brody and Associates regularly advises management on compliance with the latest local, state and federal employment laws. If we can be of assistance in this area, please contact us at info@brodyandassociates.com or 203.454.0560.
