With five days remaining until Election Day, attendees donned creative costumes at a Halloween gathering supporting mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Held at the Market Hotel in Bushwick, the event buzzed with energy as guests lined up behind a Santa Claus and a figure in a cape adorned with brownstones—an homage to Mamdani’s proposed rent freeze. The lively atmosphere was amplified by two angels sporting pink diamanté wings and shouting into microphones.
This spirited gathering was organized by Hot Girls for Zohran, a grassroots collective independent of Mamdani’s official campaign. Their mission is to mobilize younger voters through unconventional means. The approach has garnered attention, even prompting attempts from Andrew Cuomo’s team to replicate it. Founders Cait Camelia and Kaif Kabir expressed confidence in the longevity of their strategy, with Kabir stating, “I have a feeling this will continue.”
Market Hotel: A nostalgic setting for a modern campaign
The Market Hotel, steeped in the rich history of New York’s underground music scene, has transitioned from a venue for punk and indie bands to a vibrant space for political gatherings. Upon entering, the ambiance evoked nostalgia, juxtaposed with attendees dressed as pop culture icons. Notably, two women wore costumes inspired by Charli XCX and a Jet2 holiday package, referencing a viral summer audio meme.
Embodying the spirit of the city
Sierra Reed, in the Jet2 costume, expressed her disdain for former Governor Andrew Cuomo, likening him to “essentially a Jet2 holiday.” She criticized the current political landscape, describing her neighborhood as “Cuomo-ville” on the Upper East Side. Reed emphasized that the government serves only a select few, stating, “He’s a representation of the past and what we’re trying to move away from.”
Another attendee, 18-year-old fashion student Alexandra, introduced herself as “Charli.” She discovered the event while browsing the Market Hotel website and shared her excitement for both Charli XCX and the festive atmosphere. “I’m such a big Charli girl, but also a party girl,” she remarked, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the gathering.
Creating a community through creativity and fun
The organizers reported selling 250 tickets for the Halloween bash, generating an electrifying buzz by 8 p.m. Originally priced at $20, ticket sales adjusted to two for $30 due to inclement weather, with proceeds funding the event’s initiatives. The menu featured enticing options like the Hot Girl Elixir, a sweet blend of vodka, lime, and cranberry, alongside the Chani Potion, named after astrologer and Mamdani supporter Chani Nicholas, who offered tarot readings for early arrivals.
Amidst the festivities, a table adorned with rainbow crayons invited attendees to share their wishes. One whimsical note read, “I wish to banish Cuomo to Florida,” capturing the playful yet pointed tone of the evening. Christine Pagano, dressed as a Tylenol bottle, commented on the campaign’s unique branding, noting its fun and appealing nature. Despite the excitement, she planned to vote on Election Day, cherishing the sense of community that day brings.
A vibrant atmosphere filled with optimism
As the night unfolded, energy surged with a DJ spinning tunes. Attendees showcased an array of costumes featuring leather, velvet, and bunny ears. A couple dressed as Fiona and Shrek drew attention, while conversations buzzed around the impending election. Momo, a prominent social media personality, remarked on the shifting dynamics of the race, suggesting that Cuomo’s time may be nearing an end.
As I prepared to leave, I noticed the party swelling with revelers. The atmosphere was rich with camaraderie and hope, underscoring the effectiveness of this grassroots approach. A costume contest later highlighted a standout participant dressed as Curtis Sliwa, exemplifying the playful yet pointed nature of the event.
The campaign’s relentless momentum
In the lead-up to the election, Mamdani campaigned tirelessly, engaging with community members and addressing issues pertinent to voters. His late-night efforts underscored his commitment to those working night shifts, positioning himself as a champion for everyday New Yorkers. “My administration will fight just as hard for the New Yorkers who keep our city running while most of us sleep,” he pledged on social media, emphasizing his dedication to community engagement.
This spirited gathering was organized by Hot Girls for Zohran, a grassroots collective independent of Mamdani’s official campaign. Their mission is to mobilize younger voters through unconventional means. The approach has garnered attention, even prompting attempts from Andrew Cuomo’s team to replicate it. Founders Cait Camelia and Kaif Kabir expressed confidence in the longevity of their strategy, with Kabir stating, “I have a feeling this will continue.”0