A recent remark by New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has turned into a viral sensation. A popular wagering platform, Kalshi, used Mamdani’s own words to create an online ad that quickly gained massive attention.
During his appearance on the comedy podcast Flagrant this week, host Andrew Schulz told Mamdani that his odds of becoming the next mayor of New York City had reached “93% on Kalshi.” The lighthearted exchange, originally meant as a casual comment, ended up taking on a new life online.
More than an hour into the same interview, Mamdani shared a personal story that added a humorous twist to the conversation. He recalled receiving a message from a former high school classmate just days before the primary election he won earlier this year. The message read, “Yo bro, I just put a thousand on you. Please don’t let me down.”
Kalshi later took these two moments from the podcast and edited them into a short promotional video. The clip shows Schulz quoting the 93% odds, followed by Mamdani’s story about the friend’s bet. Within days, the ad spread across social media, gathering over 5 million views on X.
The viral moment highlights how the overlap between politics and online prediction markets is growing. Kalshi, a federally regulated prediction platform, allows users to trade on real-world events, including elections. The company operates legally under U.S. oversight, distinguishing itself from unregulated betting websites.
Mamdani’s rising odds reflect his growing popularity in New York City’s political landscape. His strong grassroots campaign and active online following have contributed to the spike in betting confidence. Many viewers found the video both amusing and revealing about how political conversations now spread beyond traditional media.
The viral clip also raised questions about how such betting data influences voter perception. Political analysts note that public odds can create a sense of momentum for candidates, shaping how people view their chances. For platforms like Kalshi, featuring real political figures in promotional material helps attract attention to their services.
However, some observers caution that mixing political campaigns with wagering can blur ethical lines. Critics argue that using a candidate’s statements in betting ads might give the impression of endorsement, even if unintended. Kalshi has not clarified whether it sought Mamdani’s permission before using the podcast footage.
Despite the debate, the viral ad has amplified Mamdani’s public presence. Social media users shared and commented on the clip, with many joking about the unusual blend of politics and gambling. Supporters saw it as another example of how Mamdani connects with younger audiences through humor and relatability.
The incident also shows how quickly digital media can reshape campaign narratives. What began as a casual podcast exchange has turned into a national talking point about modern politics, online betting, and viral marketing.
As the mayoral race heats up, Mamdani’s odds — both on Kalshi and in public opinion — continue to rise. Whether the viral moment will translate into actual votes remains to be seen, but it has certainly captured attention across New York and beyond.