A$AP Rocky has sparked political conversation after teasing a potential bid for New York City mayor.
The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Athelston Mayers, made the revelation during an interview with Esquire, where he explained why he believes he would be a good fit for public office.
“For sure,” Rocky said when asked if politics could be in his future. “There are a lot of political affairs that need to be addressed, changes that need to be made. I think that I would really do well because I’m a guy that’s for the people.”
He pointed to several everyday challenges facing New Yorkers, including poor road conditions, rising transportation costs and cuts to social welfare benefits.
“See potholes, fix them. The train fare just went up to $3, it’s crazy. Inflation is crazy,” he said. “SNAP, welfare, food stamps — all of these benefits are messed up because that’s where I come from. Creating more job opportunities and better health care is important.”
Rocky criticised what he described as self-serving politics, arguing that many elected officials fail to deliver on campaign promises. He said his financial independence would allow him to serve without personal gain.
“Most politicians come in promising these things, but for the most part, a lot of decisions are made with ulterior motives,” he said. “I make a really great living off being myself.”
Ending the interview on a playful note, the rapper urged New Yorkers to back him in the future.
“2029, vote for Mayor Mayers. Vote for Rocky,” he said.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is currently serving his first term in office, and it remains unclear whether he will seek re-election.
