The blistering rise of New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has captured global attention.

The self-described democratic socialist ran on promises of rent controls and taxing the rich, striking a chord with voters beyond the city.

That has translated into a surge in Australians asking search engines about the new mayor and US politics.

So what's going on and what does his win say about the American political climate?

First, catch me up

If you've not yet read past the headlines, here's a quick catch-up on Zohran Mamdani.

The 34-year-old, who was born in Uganda to Indian parents, was elected mayor of New York City on Tuesday, local time.

Before he began campaigning for the job, Mr Mamdani had worked as a state politician, and before that, a foreclosure prevention counsellor.

See Full Page