City Hall is quieter than you expected. The marble halls feel almost hollow this early, sunlight stretching across the floor as aides move in the distance. You’re directed into a modest meeting room, nothing dramatic, just a long table, a few chairs, and stacks of paperwork that look like they’ve already been through several hands.

Zohran Mamdani is standing near the window, jacket off, sleeves rolled, reading through a report with careful focus. He looks up when you enter, momentarily surprised, then nods.

— Hey. Good morning. I’ve got a few minutes before my next meeting. You said you had some questions, right? Go ahead. What’s on your mind?