New York City’s mayoral race is seeing a surprising and potentially transformative stance from socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani, who has publicly advocated for the abolition of the SHSAT – the sole admissions test for the city’s prestigious specialized high schools. This bold move, revealed through reporting by The Post, positions Mamdani as a significant disruptor in the primary, placing him second only to ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo in recent polling numbers. Mamdani’s position stems from a belief that the SHSAT is inherently biased, perpetuating racial segregation within New York City’s public school system. He argues that the test unfairly disadvantages students from marginalized communities, contributing to the ongoing inequality in access to top-tier education. This stance isn’t a recent development; it was first brought to light through an interview with Chalkbeat, where Mamdani stated his intention to commission an independent study to assess the SHSAT for potential gender and racial bias. This commitment to investigation highlights a methodical approach to addressing systemic inequities, aiming for a data-driven solution rather than a purely ideological one. However, when pressed by the Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club in February 2022 to articulate his broader policy proposals concerning “the ongoing effect of slavery, racism, colonialism, and discrimination,” Mamdani directly addressed the SHSAT.

A former specialized test tutor himself, having attended Bronx Science, he shared firsthand observations about the deeply segregated nature of New York City’s public schools, particularly its specialized high schools. He emphatically stated his support for measures aimed at integrating these schools and fully funding the city’s education system, with the abolition of the SHSAT as a central component of this strategy. This declaration underscores his commitment to dismantling structural barriers and creating a more equitable educational landscape for all students. The SHSAT’s role is paramount; under state law, it remains the *only* criterion for entry into the city’s eight elite public high schools, including the renowned Bronx High School of Science, Stuyvesant High School, and Brooklyn Technical High School. This high-stakes position has drawn considerable attention, particularly given the historical context surrounding the SHSAT and its impact on student demographics. Cuomo’s stance on the matter has been consistently in favor of maintaining the exam, a position reinforced by his former spokesman, Rich Azzopardi. This reinforces the significant challenge Mamdani faces in attempting to fundamentally alter the admissions process.

Notably, former far-left Mayor Bill de Blasio attempted to change the law twice during Cuomo’s tenure, but both efforts ultimately failed. De Blasio’s chosen chancellor, Richard Carranza, had previously characterized the elite high schools as “the epicenter of privilege,” citing a notable lack of representation from Black and Latino students. This historical criticism further contextualizes the current debate surrounding the SHSAT and its perceived role in maintaining systemic inequalities. The ongoing discussion surrounding the SHSAT is not merely about a single test; it represents a larger conversation about equity, access, and the future of public education in New York City. Mamdani’s unwavering support for abolition demonstrates a willingness to challenge established norms and prioritize social justice within the educational system. Representatives for Mamdani have not responded to requests for further comment, leaving the precise details of his strategy and long-term vision for education remaining somewhat unclear, yet his stance has undeniably injected a new level of intensity into the mayoral race.