Michael Rapaport is officially setting his sights on Manhattan's City Hall.
The longtime New York City resident and outspoken podcast host revealed that he plans to run for mayor in 2029, framing the decision as a direct response to the city’s newly sworn-in mayor, Zohran Mamdani.
Rapaport made the announcement during the closing moments of a recent episode of I Am Rapaport: Stereo Podcast, where he spoke at length about the current political climate and his frustrations with the city’s leadership.
The actor, who has never held public office, did not outline a formal platform or party affiliation. Instead, his remarks centered largely on Mamdani himself.
“Let me tell you something, guys, girls, women, children of all ages,” Rapaport said on the podcast. “2025 was crazy, and I don’t see it getting any calmer or cooler in 2026, the way things started. That’s why I’m running for mayor.”
Shortly before the podcast episode aired, Rapaport teased the news on Instagram, calling it a “special announcement.” He later followed up with a more explicit post confirming his intentions to enter the 2029 race. In the caption, he leaned heavily on his New York roots and positioned himself as a contrast to the current administration.
“I, Michael Rapaport, am running for Mayor of New York City — 2029,” he wrote. “Born. Raised. NYC. Nothing’s free. No bulls**t. No fake grins. I’ll own my mistakes, apologize when I screw up, and fight to make this city safe, affordable, and thriving.”
Mamdani was sworn in as mayor of New York City earlier this month after a campaign that drew national attention for its progressive proposals, including rent freezes, free buses, and city-run grocery stores. Rapaport has been one of Mamdani’s most vocal critics, frequently taking aim at the mayor’s public persona and political positions.
On his podcast, Rapaport described Mamdani as “a stain at the helm” and continued to question his intentions and demeanor. While he acknowledged that the city is not on the brink of immediate collapse, his criticism focused more on distrust and personal grievance than on specific policy disagreements.
Representatives for Rapaport and the mayor’s office did not respond to requests for comment from The Hollywood Reporter following the announcement.
