By Kashmira Konduparty
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he does not support changing the U.S. Constitution to allow him to run for president, dismissing speculation about a future White House bid despite his growing influence within the Democratic Party.
Speaking on ABC News’ “This Week,” Mamdani was asked whether he would support amending the Constitution so that naturalized citizens could become eligible for the presidency. The mayor gave a brief response.
“No,” Mamdani said. “I think the Constitution looks good the way it is.”
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Under Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution, only natural-born U.S. citizens who are at least 35 years old are eligible to serve as president. Mamdani, who was born in Uganda and immigrated to the United States as a child, became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2018, making him constitutionally ineligible for the office.
When ABC News anchor Jonathan Karl noted that Mamdani is approaching his 35th birthday, the mayor joked, “I’m very excited to focus on New York City, but thank you for reminding me of my upcoming mortality.”
Mamdani’s comments come amid increasing national attention following his election as New York City’s mayor and a string of victories by candidates he endorsed in recent Democratic primary elections. Last week, three candidates backed by Mamdani; Brad Lander, Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier, won competitive primary races, reinforcing his standing within the city’s progressive movement.
Asked whether Republicans would attempt to portray him as the face of the Democratic Party, Mamdani said he welcomed the attention, arguing that his administration has demonstrated that progressive policies can deliver results. He said voters across the country are seeking “a new kind of politics” focused on the concerns of working people.
The interview also touched on criticism surrounding some of the candidates Mamdani has endorsed. In particular, Darializa Avila Chevalier has faced scrutiny over past statements advocating the abolition of prisons and borders. Mamdani defended her campaign as one centered on improving the lives of working-class residents while maintaining that public safety remains essential.
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“There are prisons,” he said when asked whether he supported abolishing them, adding that “safety is not something that’s up for debate.”
Although Mamdani firmly rejected the idea of altering the Constitution for his own political future, his growing prominence has fueled speculation about his long-term role in national Democratic politics. For now, the mayor said his focus remains on governing New York City.