Zohran Mamdani, a candidate in the race for mayor of New York City, made a playful appearance on the popular show “Shop Cats”, where he interacted with a bodega cat named Coca. This appearance comes as the election approaches, with just days remaining until the polls open on November 4, 2023. Mamdani visited a Bronx bodega, where he engaged with Coca, a calico cat known for her friendly demeanor.
During the episode, Mamdani expressed his affection for Coca, stating, “Coca is cute. Coca wants to play. Coca wants to live in a city she can afford.” While his remarks about affordable living for cats drew laughter, they also highlighted his campaign’s focus on housing issues, resonating with voters concerned about the affordability crisis in the city. There has been no official policy statement regarding rent-controlled accommodations for pets, but the humorous tone of the exchange captured the attention of many.
In addition to his interaction with Coca, Mamdani showcased his lighter side by dancing to the Dominican dance Bachata and sharing his love for a classic bodega staple: “I also love an egg and cheese on a roll with jalapeños.” The episode has been shared on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where “Shop Cats” has amassed over 793,400 followers on TikTok and 228,000 followers on Instagram.
The lighthearted nature of the show contrasts with the serious backdrop of the mayoral race, where Mamdani is currently leading in the polls against notable opponents, including former New York governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Republican activist Curtis Sliwa.
In a creative twist, there is also a dedicated Instagram account named Cats4Zohran, which has attracted around 11,000 followers. The account promotes the idea of a “livable NYC,” emphasizing the need for affordable housing and more treats for cats. In comparison, a similar account called Dogs4Zohran has only 708 followers, reflecting the unique appeal that bodega cats have in New York City’s vibrant culture.
The initiative behind “Shop Cats” is part of a broader effort by the production company Mad Realities, which also produces the trivia show “Hollywood IQ.” This mix of entertainment and political engagement illustrates how candidates are increasingly leveraging social media and popular culture to connect with voters, especially in urban areas.
As the election date nears, Mamdani’s playful engagement with Coca serves as a reminder of the lighter moments that can exist within the often serious arena of politics. As voters weigh their choices, the blend of humor and serious policy discussions may influence their decisions at the ballot box.
