Bill Ackman reveals why he’s not a ‘fan’ of Mamdani, doesn’t rule out mayoral run against him

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman has publicly criticised New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, describing his policies as "disastrous" for the city and confirming he is not a "fan" of the Democratic socialist. Ackman's comments, made during a podcast interview, add him to a growing list of prominent business figures and political voices pushing back against Mamdani's agenda, and matter because they signal continued elite opposition that could shape the mayor's ability to govern and his prospects at re-election.

Ackman did not rule out the possibility of running for mayor himself against Mamdani, raising the prospect of a direct billionaire-versus-socialist electoral contest in future. The criticism came the same week other high-profile figures, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accused Mamdani of "fomenting hate" and making New York's Jewish community feel afraid, underscoring the intensity of the backlash Mamdani faces from establishment and business figures since taking office.