Bernie Sanders Joins Zohran Mamdani for a Powerful Get Out the Vote Rally in Flatbush
On June 18, just days before New York’s June 23 primary election, Brooklyn’s historic Kings Theatre in Flatbush became a gathering place for political organizing, community energy, and a push to get voters to the polls. The Get Out the Vote rally brought together supporters of the NYC Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) congressional slate, local candidates, and national progressive leaders for an evening focused on voter participation and grassroots momentum.
The timing of the event made it a significant moment in the final stretch before Election Day. Taking place on the same day as the New York Knicks championship parade, the rally offered a different kind of citywide gathering, one centered on civic engagement and the future of local representation.
Bernie Sanders and Zohran Mamdani Rally Supporters Before Primary Day
The crowd gathered to hear from a lineup of candidates and political figures, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, who both addressed attendees. It encouraged continued engagement in the democratic process.
Before Mamdani and Sanders took the stage, several candidates from the NYC DSA slate who had secured primary victories spoke to supporters, highlighting their campaigns and the organizing efforts behind them.
The speakers included Illapa Sairitupac, who won the State Assembly District 65 primary; Darializa Avila Chevalier, who won in Congressional District 13; Claire Valdez, who won in Congressional District 7; and Brad Lander, who won in New York’s 10th Congressional District. The lineup also featured Aber Kawas, who won the State Assembly District 12 primary, and Samantha Kaftan, who won the State Assembly District 37 primary.
Their appearances reflected the broader organizing strategy behind the rally: building enthusiasm, strengthening voter participation, and encouraging supporters to make their voices heard as primary voting approached.
NYC DSA Candidates Take the Stage
Inside the Kings Theatre, the historic Flatbush venue provided a powerful backdrop for an evening that blended political organizing with the cultural identity of Brooklyn. The gathering brought together longtime activists, first-time participants, and community members preparing for one of the most important moments of the city’s political calendar.
Mamdani’s remarks focused on the importance of grassroots involvement and the role voters play in shaping the direction of New York City. His appearance reinforced the message of the evening: that elections are driven not only by candidates, but by the communities that organize, volunteer, and show up.
Sanders, known nationally for his focus on grassroots movements and voter engagement, brought additional attention to the rally. His presence highlighted the connection between local campaigns and broader conversations about political participation across the country.
As the June 23 primary approached, the Kings Theatre rally served as both a celebration of organizing efforts and a final push to motivate voters. The event reflected the growing role of community-based campaigns in New York politics and the continued importance of turnout in determining the city’s political future.
For attendees, the night was about more than speeches; it was about building momentum, connecting with neighbors, and encouraging participation before voters headed to the polls.
In Flatbush, a neighborhood known for its diversity, history, and civic engagement, the June 18 gathering at Kings Theatre became another example of Brooklyn’s long tradition of political expression and community action.