SAN JUAN — As New York's political elite gathered in Puerto Rico for their annual Somos conference, all eyes were on Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Mayor of New York, who is already shaking up the city's political landscape with his bold visions and democratic socialist ideals. The conference, which has become a crucial meeting point for more than 4,000 Democrat insiders, state lawmakers, and union leaders, transformed into a buzzing hub of anticipation with Mamdani as the guest of honor.

Arriving at the Caribe Hilton hotel, Mamdani was greeted by a massive crowd of supporters and skeptics alike. Unlike the typical political gatherings he faced during his campaign, this crowd was a mix of power brokers and seasoned politicians, many of whom had initially resisted his progressive agenda. However, Mamdani's consistent message about making New York affordable for its working citizens resonated even here.

During his speech, the Mayor-elect emphasized the dual necessity of combating authoritarian threats and tackling the city’s affordability crisis. "It is time for working people to be able to afford to live in the city that they call home," Mamdani declared, appealing directly to the leaders present to join him in his mission.

The choice of his reception venue, co-hosted by the supportive District Council 37 and State Attorney General Letitia James, was a statement in itself. James praised Mamdani’s courage and vision, highlighting the importance of unity and protection for the city's future leader.

Mamdani's presence posed critical questions about his relationship with the Democratic establishment. Despite his critiques of the party's old guard, he showed a willingness to engage, avoiding the typical bar circuit and focusing on private meetings to foster dialogues that could bridge old divides.

The atmosphere was charged with curiosity and cautious optimism as attendees discussed Mamdani's potential impact on New York's political scene. His comments at the conference also addressed national issues, including a planned conversation with President Trump, who had controversially threatened to withdraw federal support from New York if Mamdani were elected.

Additionally, Mamdani responded sharply to House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had labeled him a "Marxist," by criticizing the Republican administration's failures. He remained equally critical of Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik’s gubernatorial ambitions, labeling her politics as a source of despair.

Back on the state level, Mamdani reiterated his commitment to funding essential services through progressive taxation, though he remained open to other revenue-generating proposals from Governor Kathy Hochul, despite their ideological differences.

Even as political chants of "Tax the Rich!" followed Governor Hochul to the stage, underscoring the tensions within the party, Mamdani’s focus remained unwavering. His brief taste of local culture — enjoying mofongo shortly after landing — was a light-hearted touch to his intense introduction to the political elite gathered in San Juan.

As the conference continues, the political discourse swirling around Mamdani suggests that his mayoral tenure will be closely watched by friends and foes alike. His initial steps appear to blend a respect for tradition with a clear vision for transformative leadership, marking him as a significant figure to watch in the evolving narrative of New York politics.