Voters in the United States are preparing to participate in important off-year elections, which include mayoral races in New York City, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Detroit, as well as gubernatorial contests in Virginia and New Jersey. These elections will provide an early indication of public sentiment less than a year into President Donald Trump’s second term.

In New York City, the spotlight is on Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist who is expected to win the mayoral race following his surprising primary victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo, now running as an independent, is significantly trailing in the polls. Mamdani's rise has made him a notable figure in the national political landscape, highlighting the ongoing debate between progressive and conservative ideologies.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey is facing a strong challenge from democratic socialist Omar Fateh. In Seattle, moderate Mayor Bruce Harrell is up against progressive community organizer Katie Wilson. Detroit's race features front-runners Mary Sheffield and Solomon Kinloch Jr., both vying to be recognized as the leading progressive candidate.

In Virginia, the race to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin is drawing considerable attention. Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a former US representative, is competing against Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, the current lieutenant governor. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill aims to maintain her party's hold on the governor's office as Phil Murphy reaches his term limit. She faces Republican state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, who could potentially upset the current polling trends.

Key election dates include mayoral and city council elections in New York City, special elections for the Mississippi State House of Representatives, and congressional special elections in Texas and Tennessee. These races are crucial as they will shape the political landscape ahead of the next presidential election.