NEW YORK — Zohran Mamdani's ascent to the mayor's office in New York City marks a burgeoning trend among young politicians who are leveraging digital platforms to galvanize a new generation of voters. With nearly 70 percent of voters aged 18 to 44 backing him, Mamdani's campaign strategies, rich with engaging content and social media savvy, signaled a shift in how political messages are crafted and consumed.

Across the United States, a wave of young Democratic hopefuls are now following Mamdani's blueprint, utilizing digital-first approaches to challenge the status quo within an aging party. From a 25-year-old influencer in Arizona to a 35-year-old congressional candidate in Idaho, these young contenders are embracing platforms like TikTok and Instagram not just out of necessity, but as a native mode of communication.

Amanda Litman, CEO of Run for Something, notes a palpable shift in attitude among young politicians: "The theme this year is 'I'm done waiting around. I'm sick of being told it's not my turn.'" This sentiment is echoed in the surge of interest from young Democrats nationwide, with thousands signing up to run for office following significant political events, driven by a desire to bring change and new perspectives into the political arena.

The digital fluency of millennials and Gen Z is reshaping campaign strategies. Inexpensive and far-reaching, social media platforms allow candidates with limited funding to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with voters. Sam Foster, a young mayoral candidate from Georgia, emphasizes that social media is not just a strategy but a natural extension of how his generation communicates.

Mamdani's campaign, which began with modest polling numbers, gained traction through a series of viral videos and social media interactions that highlighted key issues like housing and childcare. His approach not only increased his visibility but also helped him raise significant funds from a broad base of small-dollar donors.

This shift towards digital campaigning is not without its critics. Some argue that while online platforms are effective for raising awareness and funds, they are no substitute for the comprehensive strategies needed to secure electoral victories. Moreover, the focus on digital engagement may overshadow deeper policy discussions.

Nevertheless, as the Democratic Party grapples with its leadership and direction, the success of candidates like Mamdani offers a promising glimpse into how the party might rejuvenate itself by embracing the tools and tactics of the digital age. For many young candidates, the path forward is clear: when traditional methods fall short, it's time to go viral.