Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined Rev. Al Sharpton and other notable figures Tuesday evening to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Sharpton's MSNBC program, "Politics Nation." The event, held at Red Rooster in Harlem, took place despite rainy weather, with Mamdani arriving by bicycle.
Mamdani, speaking at the celebration, commended Sharpton for his long-standing role in keeping New York City mayors "honest." He described Sharpton as an activist, broadcaster, leader, and conscience, acknowledging his significant influence in the city long before Mamdani himself entered office.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also spoke at the event, presenting Sharpton with an official proclamation from the state. Hochul characterized the civil rights activist as a "living Forrest Gump," highlighting his presence through significant historical events and his role as a voice and conscience for America. "He has been the voice, the conscience of America, but also the person who holds up a mirror and says, ‘Is this who we want to be?'" Hochul remarked.
The anniversary celebration included remarks from Tony Award winner Billy Porter, MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler, and Sharpton himself. Attendees also included Comptroller Mark Levine, Jennifer Jones Austin, and Martin Luther King III.
Other guests at the gathering included MSNBC anchors and personalities such as Ari Melber, Jonathan Capehart, Michael Steele, Michele Norris, Symone Sanders Townsend, and Stephanie Ruhle. Sharpton's longtime girlfriend, designer Aisha McShaw, was also present. The event marked a significant milestone for Sharpton's program, which has been a platform for discussions on civil rights and political issues for over a decade.