Michael Rapaport has his sights set on a new career path.
The actor and podcast host revealed he will be running for New York City Mayor in 2029. Rapaport, a longtime NYC resident, said his decision came after the response the new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, received.
He made the announcement at the end of his recent podcast episode of I Am Rapaport: Stereo Podcast. During the announcement, he expressed his frustrations with the city’s leadership and the current political climate.
Michael Rapaport has never held public office and did not reveal his political party affiliation. However, his remarks were mostly centered around Mamdani.
“Let me tell you something, guys, girls, women, children of all ages,” he said. “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.”
Just before the episode aired, he released a teaser of the news on social media, calling it a “Special Announcement.” Rapaport later confirmed the news with a more in depth post on his Instagram.
In the caption, he talked about his New York roots and said that he was different than 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.”
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as NYC Mayor earlier this month. His campaign garnered national attention because of his progressive views and proposals on rent freezes, city-run grocery stores, and free buses.
Throughout Mamdani’s campaign, Rapaport has been heavily critical of it, calling him a “stain at the helm” while questioning his intentions.
Are you ready to have another celebrity turned politician to be in office?
