In a lighthearted and attention-grabbing move, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani plunged into the Thomas Jefferson Pool in East Harlem—wearing his full suit, tie, and even dress shoes. The stunt marked the official start of the city’s summer swimming season at its public pools.
A Tradition Revived—and Rules Bent
Mamdani joined dozens of children in the water, reviving a long-standing mayoral tradition last seen under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg. His predecessors, Bill de Blasio and Eric Adams, had not continued the practice. While playful in tone, the dip stirred conversation: NYC pool regulations require swimmers to wear proper swimwear—including lined trunks for men—to maintain water cleanliness and chemical balance. Mamdani did not change out of his formal attire—not even removing his socks.
Children React with Delight
Twelve-year-old Mila Mander, who was in the pool, said: “It was so fun. I couldn’t believe he’d actually do it! Then he shook my hand. It was amazing.”
Mamdani had previously signaled his intention to uphold the tradition after a reporter asked whether he planned to follow in Bloomberg’s footsteps. He also waded into the ocean in formal wear last year during a winter swim event at Coney Island—a campaign stunt that foreshadowed this latest splash.