Zohran Mamdani, a candidate in the race for mayor of New York City, made a unique campaign stop at a Bronx bodega on November 4, 2023. His appearance on the popular show “Shop Cats,” produced by Mad Realities, featured him interacting with the bodega’s resident cat, a calico named Coca. With just days until election day, Mamdani’s visit highlights his strategy to engage with diverse voter demographics, including pet owners.
During the episode, Mamdani was filmed meeting Coca, expressing his admiration for the feline. “Coca is cute,” he remarked, adding, “Coca wants to play. Coca wants to live in a city she can afford.” This playful moment underscores the candidate’s approach to connecting with potential voters in a lighthearted manner. Although there is no formal policy proposal regarding affordable housing for pets, the interaction resonated with the show’s audience.
In addition to his meeting with Coca, Mamdani showcased his enthusiasm for local culture by participating in a few beats of the Dominican dance, Bachata. He remarked, “I love bodega cats. And I also love an egg and cheese on a roll with jalapeños.” The episode effectively blends entertainment and politics, appealing to a younger demographic.
“Shop Cats” has gained considerable popularity, boasting over 793,400 followers on TikTok and 228,000 followers on Instagram. The show features comedic interviews with bodega cats, attracting viewers with its light-hearted content. Separately, a Cats4Zohran Instagram account has emerged, promoting Mamdani’s campaign with around 11,000 followers. Its bio states, “Cats catvassing for Zohran! A livable NYC = safer affordable homes + more treats!” In contrast, a Dogs4Zohran account has attracted only 708 followers, indicating that feline supporters may be more engaged.
As the election approaches, Mamdani is currently leading in the polls for the three-way race against former New York governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Republican activist Curtis Sliwa. His unconventional campaign tactics, including appearances on social media-driven platforms, may play a significant role in swaying undecided voters.
In addition to “Shop Cats,” Mad Realities also produces “Hollywood IQ,” a trivia show focused on pop culture, further demonstrating the company’s innovative approach to engaging audiences.
As the countdown to the election continues, Mamdani’s unique blend of politics and playful engagement with local culture may prove influential in the final voter turnout.