Elle Bisgaard-Church

Supporters of New York's new mayor credit his victory to his chief adviser, says Fred Harter

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Shortly before New York's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, delivered his rousing victory speech to a packed hall in Brooklyn last Tuesday night, one person was singled out for praise: Elle Bisgaard-Church, his 34-year-old chief adviser.

A rapturous crowd broke into chants of “Elle! Elle! Elle!” as she was hailed as “the person who has been Zohran’s right hand from day one, whose deep commitment to our movement and care for our people has infused every part of this campaign from top to bottom, and without whom we would not be here tonight”.

It was a fleeting moment in the spotlight for Bisgaard-Church, who likes to keep a low profile. She rarely speaks in public or gives interviews and, unusually for a New York politico, does not post on X. Yet she has masterminded one of the most improbable, closely-watched and successful campaigns in recent political history, propelling an obscure socialist candidate to the highest office of the most important city in the US.

Mamdani was elected on three core pledges focused on affordability: a rent freeze, free buses and universal childcare. He has also promised city-run grocery shops and 200,000 affordable homes. These will be paid for by taxing the rich and big businesses.

Insiders credit Bisgaard-Church with crafting this platform and the strategy that drove the message home, helming a brains trust of other thirtysomethings.

"Her influence cannot be overstated," said Gustavo Gordillo, co-chair of the New York City Democratic Socialists of America. "She should take credit for the top three demands that make up the affordability agenda. With Zohran, she is the brains of the campaign."

Patrick Gaspard, a former Obama aide and an informal adviser to Mamdani, describes Bisgaard-Church as the campaign's "boiler room". "She's easily the most influential voice, partner, strategist in the camp, and there's no close second," he said.