The Zohran Mamdani method can work beyond New York. Take the fight to the right | Aditya Chakrabortty

Zohran Mamdani adopted a socialist perspective influenced by Bernie Sanders during the Trump era. He gained insight into voter motivations by directly engaging with people who supported Donald Trump. Mamdani's experience, captured in a film, offers significant revelations about contemporary politics. Unlike traditional political "listening exercises," Mamdani actively seeks out ordinary citizens on street corners. He presents himself as an approachable figure, unlike established politicians who rely on platitudes. His interactions reveal that many people feel marginalized by an economy where basic necessities are unaffordable. These individuals believe that politics has failed them and consequently view politicians as inadequate. The article suggests that the center has adopted the rhetoric of the right but with a more palatable delivery, leading to negative outcomes. This approach has proven disastrous, as it fails to address the root causes of people's struggles. The author, Aditya Chakrabortty, is a Guardian columnist.