Michael Rapaport, the veteran actor and podcaster, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2029 New York City mayoral race. Positioned as a direct challenger to the city’s newly inaugurated democratic socialist Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, Rapaport is promising a “no-bulls—t” approach to governing the Big Apple.
Rapaport made the announcement on the latest episode of his “I Am Rapaport Stereo Podcast.” He expressed a deep sense of urgency, stating that the chaos of 2025 has already spilled into 2026.
“I don’t see it getting any f—ing calmer or cooler in 2026,” Rapaport told his listeners. “That’s why I’m running for mayor.”
The 55-year-old actor followed up his podcast announcement with a viral Instagram post. He emphasized his lifelong connection to the city, writing: “Born. Raised. NYC. Nothing’s free. No bulls—t. No fake grins.”
Rapaport has been a relentless critic of Mayor Mamdani, whom he frequently refers to as “Zohran the Zero” or “Zoron the Moron.” He has particularly attacked the Mayor’s stance on the conflict in Gaza and his socialist economic platform.
Mayor Mamdani, a 34-year-old former state assemblyman, recently took office after a surprise victory built on promises of rent freezes and city-run grocery stores. Rapaport has characterized the new administration as a “slap in the face” to many New Yorkers, especially the Jewish community.
The actor’s platform appears focused on public safety, affordability, and accountability. He told fans he is “taking it as far as I can take it” and has even invited supporters to submit resumes for his future administration.
While the election is still 1,400 days away, Rapaport insists his bid is sincere. He aims to offer a pro-business, law-and-order alternative to Mamdani’s progressive agenda.