NEW YORK — Mayor Zohran Mamdani, widely seen as a rising progressive star, has allegedly wielded his influence behind the scenes in ways that have unsettled some allies and reshaped local politics, according to a lengthy report by The New York Times on Monday.

Sources familiar with the mayor’s private dealings claim that Mamdani pressured Councilman Chi Ossé to drop a high-profile bid for Congress, warning that pursuing the campaign could undermine the left’s political goals. Allegedly, Mamdani offered Ossé a role in his governing coalition if he complied but suggested that refusing could result in political isolation. Ossé eventually withdrew from the race.

The Times report also details alleged maneuvers in state and local politics, including efforts to influence endorsements and primary races. One example involved backing Assemblywoman Claire Valdez over City Councilwoman Tiffany Cabán in a congressional succession race, despite Cabán being a more natural ally to retiring Representative Nydia Velázquez. Sources said Mamdani’s actions were aimed at consolidating influence among progressive democratic socialists.

Critics of the mayor argue that these moves sometimes prioritize personal control over ideological consistency, bruising relationships with long-time allies. “Every successful political person has to either come to the table with the ability to be a little bit ruthless from time to time, or they have to pick it up quickly,” said Jay Jacobs, state Democratic Party chairman, to The New York Times.

Supporters counter that Mamdani has been strategically pushing his policy priorities, including expanding access to free child care, and using his influence to build a stronger progressive presence in Albany. In several instances, the Times reported, Mamdani coordinated closely with Governor Kathy Hochul to secure policy wins and limit opposition from within the left.

Other incidents cited by the Times involve alleged behind-the-scenes pressure on liberal nonprofit groups, maneuvering to shape state legislative races, and carefully managing public appearances to support allies while marginalizing perceived political threats. Some allies who spoke anonymously to the Times said they were frustrated by the mayor’s tactics, describing a contrast between his public charm and private political assertiveness.

Among the reported outcomes, a potential endorsement by the Working Families Party for a progressive challenger was allegedly neutralized after hours of private calls by Mamdani and his advisers. Sources said the mayor wanted the party to remain neutral to protect alliances with Governor Hochul.

The Times also highlighted the mayor’s engagement with high-profile figures across the political spectrum, including orchestrating interactions with former President Donald Trump to advance local priorities and secure attention for policy goals.

When reached for comment, Mamdani’s office emphasized the mayor’s popularity and his commitment to advancing progressive policies but did not address specific allegations from private sources.

The report paints a picture of a young mayor whose political acumen is matched by a willingness to act decisively — and sometimes aggressively — behind the scenes, raising questions about how far pragmatism should stretch in pursuit of policy goals.