New York, US:In a surprising turn within the city’s small business community, the founder of New York City’s most recognized bodega owners’ association has stepped down after internal conflict erupted over the group’s public endorsement of mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. The unexpected resignation has sent ripples through the city’s corner-store network, a vital force in the daily life of countless New Yorkers.
A Deep Divide Among Small Business Owners
The association, representing hundreds of independent bodega owners across the five boroughs, announced earlier this week that it would officially back Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in his bid for mayor. The endorsement was meant to highlight Mamdani’s advocacy for immigrant entrepreneurs and his calls for fairer small business regulations.
However, the decision quickly drew criticism from several senior members who felt they had been left out of the consultation process. The founder, who had led the organization since its creation nearly a decade ago, reportedly disagreed with the political direction and called the endorsement “premature and divisive.”
Several members echoed the concern, saying the group should focus on core business issues like rising rent, safety, and access to suppliers rather than city politics. “We built this community to help small stores survive, not to pick sides in elections,” said one store owner from Queens, reflecting a sentiment shared by many bodega operators.
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The Resignation Announcement
The founder announced the resignation in a private meeting that quickly became public when portions of the discussion were shared across social media. Sources present at the meeting described the atmosphere as tense but respectful, with some members urging the founder to reconsider. By the end of the evening, an acting chairperson had been appointed to manage the group’s affairs while a formal leadership vote is expected next month.
The departing leader emphasized that the decision was made “in the best interests of unity” and expressed hope that the organization would continue to represent all bodega owners, regardless of political affiliation. The statement closed with a message calling for civility and solidarity in the days ahead.
Political Implications and Response
Zohran Mamdani, a progressive Democrat known for his strong stance on economic justice and immigrant rights, has garnered attention for his grassroots-style campaign. His outreach to small businesses, including bodegas, barbershops, and street vendors, has been a central feature of his mayoral run.
Responding to the controversy, Mamdani’s campaign issued a short statement thanking the association for its support while expressing “respect for all individuals who have contributed to the community’s success.” His team refrained from commenting directly on the founder’s departure.
Political analysts say the resignation underscores a broader tension between traditional business interests and the city’s left-leaning political movement. As New York grapples with soaring commercial rents, increased delivery competition, and post-pandemic recovery challenges, small businesses have become a key focus of the city’s policy debates.
Reaction Within the Community
Across bodegas in areas like the Bronx, Harlem, and Jackson Heights, conversations about the endorsement have been lively. Some store owners welcome Mamdani’s progressive platform, arguing he understands the struggles of immigrant-run stores. Others fear that aligning too closely with one political camp could alienate customers or draw unwanted attention.
In Brooklyn, a longtime store operator expressed hope that the controversy would “open more discussion about what bodegas really need” instead of dividing the community. Several have suggested forming a separate coalition focused solely on non-political advocacy.
Next Steps for the Organization
The association’s interim leadership has promised to conduct a transparent review of how endorsements are made in the future. They are also planning a town hall meeting to gather input from members before taking any additional political stances. The goal, according to insiders, is to heal internal wounds and restore trust among members who feel sidelined.
Observers note that this may also serve as a wake-up call for other small business alliances across New York City. Political endorsements can strengthen relationships with policymakers but also risk fragmenting coalitions built on shared economic and cultural goals.
Looking Ahead
As the mayoral race continues, attention will remain on how community-based organizations like the bodegas group navigate their influence. The founder’s resignation marks not just a leadership change but also a moment of reflection for an industry that has always been more than business—it is part of the city’s cultural backbone.
With the founder stepping away, the future direction of the group now lies in the hands of younger leaders eager to balance advocacy, neutrality, and survival in a city that never stops changing.
Conclusion:
The resignation of the bodega association’s founder highlights the growing political challenges faced by New York’s small business community. Whether the group mends divisions or fragments further will depend on its ability to blend solidarity with strategy as the mayoral campaign unfolds.
