A Mamdani lookalike contest was held in New York's Washington Square Park on Sunday, with part-time actor Amadeo Fusca crowned winner for his uncanny resemblance to and impersonation of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. It was the first such contest held since Mamdani took office, following an earlier lookalike event in 2025 that took place before he won the Democratic primary, reflecting the mayor's continued popularity and cultural visibility in the city.

Fusca, who lives on the Upper East Side and has appeared in NCIS, Marvel's Daredevil and Boardwalk Empire, said success depended on capturing Mamdani's persona and enthusiasm rather than just his looks, even echoing the mayor's style by insisting "the city of New York won" rather than claiming personal victory. He took home $100 for first place, with the runner-up receiving $50, and said he planned to spend his winnings on sports gambling and a good lunch. Onlookers attributed Mamdani's popularity to his focus on everyday issues such as potholes and scaffolding, contributing to what they described as a more hopeful mood in the city.