New York City’s mayoral election on March 5, 2024, saw a significant political shift with the election of Zohran Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist. His victory has sparked a mix of optimism and concern among local business owners in a city known for its high costs and stringent regulations. While some wealthy residents fear an exodus of businesses, others, particularly in the small business sector, view Mamdani’s win as a beacon of hope.
For Kadjahtou Balde, owner of a thrift store in Harlem, Mamdani’s ascendance to City Hall represents a renewed belief in her ability to thrive in a challenging environment. “As somebody who is a young person, who is a mom, who’s a (child of an) immigrant, existing in New York is something that is very difficult,” Balde said. “Mamdani is now another reason for me to actually believe that I can make it in the city.”
Mamdani’s rise was bolstered by support from a diverse demographic, including workers and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds. In his victory speech, he highlighted the contributions of local community members, stating, “I speak of Yemeni bodega owners and Mexican abuelas. Senegalese taxi drivers and Uzbek nurses. Trinidadian line cooks and Ethiopian aunties.” His proposals aim to ease the burdens on small businesses, including halving fines and fees, expediting permits, appointing a “Mom & Pops Czar,” and increasing funding for one-on-one support programs.
Despite the enthusiasm from some quarters, concerns linger among business leaders about the potential impact of Mamdani’s policies. Mark Jaffe, president of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, expressed worry that Mamdani’s idea of establishing city-run grocery stores could undermine local bodegas.
Local Business Owners Voice Optimism
Local entrepreneurs are hopeful that Mamdani’s initiatives will enhance their ability to operate effectively. Aliyyah Baylor, co-founder of the bakery Make My Cake, expressed her excitement, stating, “I love my city… I’m gonna be excited now.” Her family history in Harlem, marked by resilience during the Great Migration, fuels her passion for maintaining their legacy through her business.
Baylor aims to see the continuation of workforce development programs initiated by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg. She believes that policies to level the playing field for small businesses against larger corporations are essential. Mamdani has identified the city’s complex regulations as a hindrance to small businesses, proposing to simplify processes and reduce red tape.
“I hope he also gets more people in positions to be able to help expedite opening up store fronts,” Baylor added, referencing her previous challenges in securing inspections for her bakery.
Health Concerns Spotlighted
In Queens, Serine Aklouche, a pharmacy technician, praised Mamdani’s commitment to addressing rising costs. “When he speaks about the prices and everything, that’s really, really, really important,” Aklouche noted, highlighting the struggles of customers to afford medication. She emphasized that the issues at stake extend beyond mere consumer products to essential health needs.
Mamdani previously served as the assemblyman for Queens, and local businesses are optimistic about his plans to support diverse communities. Aklouche mentioned that Mamdani’s acknowledgment of cultural diversity in his speech resonated with her and her colleagues. “It’s nice to know that he supports all of these businesses, whether we’re Arab, whether Hispanic, any type,” she said.
Balde’s family legacy also drives her determination to succeed in New York. Her father, an immigrant from Guinea, ran a store that faced numerous challenges under previous administrations. She hopes that Mamdani’s policies will improve access to resources for business growth and support for individuals navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.
“I’m somebody who recognizes the legacy that my dad has built,” Balde said. “And so it has taken everything in me to want to continue being here.” Through her entrepreneurial efforts, she recently opened the city’s first Muslim-friendly thrift store at her father’s former location, demonstrating her commitment to remaining in New York despite the challenges.
As Mamdani prepares to take office, the city’s small business community remains watchful yet hopeful, eager to see how his administration will address their needs and concerns in one of the most economically challenging environments in the country.
