Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson is inviting New York City residents to relocate to Texas following the Democratic primary victory of a self-described Muslim socialist in the race for New York City mayor.
Johnson took to social media shortly after Zohran Mamdani — a far-left state assemblyman and member of the Democratic Socialists of America — won the Democratic nomination, defeating former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a political upset that has roiled the party.
“Dear Concerned New York City Resident or Business Owner,” Johnson wrote. “Don’t panic! Just move to Dallas, where we strongly support our police, value our partners in the business community, embrace free markets, shun excessive regulation, and protect the American Dream!”
Dear Concerned New York City Resident or Business Owner:
Don’t panic! Just move to Dallas, where we strongly support our police, value our partners in the business community, embrace free markets, shun excessive regulation, and protect the American Dream! https://t.co/UX2bJl7NhT
— Mayor Eric L. Johnson (@Johnson4Dallas) June 25, 2025
The next day, Johnson followed up with a nod to Texas history:
“Back in the 1800s, people moving to Texas for greater opportunities would etch ‘GTT’ — Gone to Texas — on their doors,” he wrote. “If you’re a New Yorker heading to Dallas, maybe try ‘GTD’ to let fellow lovers of law and order know where you’ve gone.” #GoneToDallas
Back in the 1800s, people moving to Texas for greater opportunities would etch “GTT” for “Gone to Texas” on their doors. If you’re a New Yorker heading to Dallas, maybe try “GTD” to let fellow lovers of law and order know where you’ve gone. #GoneToDallas https://t.co/g3jZ7PG7uc
— Mayor Eric L. Johnson (@Johnson4Dallas) June 26, 2025
Dallas City Council Member Cara Mendelsohn echoed the sentiment, sharing Johnson’s message on social media.
So many people I know in NYC now looking to move to TX or FL – Come pick DALLAS! We have it all. #D12 #GoneToDallas #GTD https://t.co/6ctCYrvJZg
— Cara Mendelsohn 🟦 (@caraathome) June 26, 2025
Dallas Mayor Johnson later provided an official statement to The Dallas Express, doubling down on his stance and promoting the city as a top destination for companies seeking freedom and opportunity.
“Dallas already rivals New York City as a premier business hub, particularly in the financial sector. We earned the name ‘Y’all Street’ for a reason,” Johnson said.
“Regardless of what happens in NYC, Dallas will remain the top destination for companies looking for stability, support, and opportunity because we value our business partners, reject excessive regulation, and support our police. Dallas is the perfect home for anyone that resonates with.
“Dallas invites all businesses not valued by their current cities to thrive here with the wealth of opportunity this city has to offer. And we will do everything we can to make that happen.”
Mamdani’s nomination marks a sharp political turn in America’s largest city.
According to Newsweek, he ran on a platform that included raising taxes on the wealthy, creating government-run grocery stores, defunding the NYPD, and supporting Palestinian causes. His victory over Cuomo all but ensures a win in the November general election in a city where Democrats outnumber Republicans 7 to 1.
The shift in leadership is already prompting business leaders to look south. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the New York Stock Exchange Texas has secured a new home in Dallas, occupying 28,000 square feet at Harlan Crow’s Old Parkland — a hub for private capital and family offices.
Earlier this year, as reported by The Dallas Express, Trump Media & Technology Group became the first company listed on the state’s newly launched securities exchange.