At the annual Men’s Day open streets event in Brooklyn in 2025, socialist NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attempted to bench press 225 pounds, but failed to meet the goal. The video of his improper technique went viral across social media platforms, sparking discussions about the role of physical fitness in political campaigns. A sports doctor has since provided an analysis of the incident, offering insights into the technical errors that led to the failure.
Mamdani, who has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, faced criticism from some quarters for the incident, though others defended his efforts to engage with the community in a unique manner. The event, which drew thousands of participants, was intended to promote community involvement and physical fitness, with participants of all ages taking part in various sports and activities. The sports doctor’s analysis has sparked a broader conversation about the importance of physical health in public service, with some calling for greater emphasis on wellness in political leadership.