Zohran Mamdani Begs for $4M After “Everything’s Free” Campaign | WATCH

In a viral video that's set conservative X ablaze, freshly elected NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who swept to victory on November 5, 2025, promising "free" buses, rent freezes, cheaper groceries, and universal healthcare, stunned supporters by admitting "nothing is actually free" while launching a desperate plea for an additional $4 million to fund his transition team before taking office on January 1, 2026.

The clip has racked up over 1.3 million views and thousands of shares, with right-wing users slamming it as proof that "every communist is a professional swindler" and New Yorkers just got "scammed big time."

Mamdani explained that while his campaign relied on public matching funds, transitions don't qualify, so he's turning to grassroots donors (vowing "no wealthy donors") to cover the shortfall for hiring staff, policy planning, and community outreach.

The Video and Backlash Breakdown

Mamdani's appeal starts upbeat: "We need your help! But let me explain why..." He touts the $1 million already raised but stresses the $4 million gap, saying, "We have less than 50 days until we take office, and we have a lot to do." The "stunner" line comes midway: He acknowledges the irony of a socialist asking for cash post-election, quipping that "things can't actually be free" - a direct nod to his campaign's bold pledges like fare-free public transit and subsidized housing.

Eric Trump piled on during a Fox News hit, calling Mamdani a "socialist communist" who "hates the Indian population" and wants to nationalize grocery stores.

Media Coverage: Outlets like Fox News, CBS New York, and Townhall amplified the irony, with headlines like "Zohran Mamdani's Back and Begging for More Money" and "Socialist Mirage Shatters." Even ILTV Israel News highlighted the appeal, noting Mamdani's history of anti-Israel stances.

This fundraising flop exposes the nuts-and-bolts grind of governance: Transitions cost $3–5M typically, covered by big donors for moderates like Adams (who raised $2M privately). Mamdani's "grassroots only" vow is noble but risky, his campaign smashed records with $10M+ in small donations and matches, but now it's all on fans.

If it falls short, expect delays in staffing his "people's administration." Supporters see it as staying true; detractors, as the first crack in the socialist facade. As one X user put it: "The only 'free' part of socialism is the promises."

Mamdani's team says donations are rolling in, but with 42 days left, the clock's ticking. Will NYC's boldest mayor deliver the utopia or just more IOUs?