Zohran Mamdani's election as mayor of New York has been celebrated by progressives as a groundbreaking moment, signaling the rise of a far-left agenda in one of the world's most influential cities. However, the article argues that Mamdani's ambitious platform—featuring rent freezes, higher taxes, and expanded public housing—faces the same pitfalls that have historically doomed socialist experiments. The author contends that such policies, while morally appealing, often ignore fundamental aspects of human nature and economic incentive, leading to stagnation, inefficiency, and eventual decline.

The piece warns that Mamdani's victory could backfire on the Democratic Party by alienating moderates and business interests, deepening internal divisions, and risking a broader political backlash if his administration falters. Ultimately, the article suggests that the lessons of history cast doubt on the viability of Mamdani's approach, cautioning that the pursuit of equality through state control has repeatedly led to disappointment and loss of freedom.