Cardi B to Judge NYC's 'Best Childcare Jingle' Contest

The competition aims to promote Mayor Zohran Mamdani's free childcare initiative for 2-year-olds.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 7:34am

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring a dazzling array of glittering, reflective textures in high contrast, evoking the glamour and excitement of a citywide music competition.The vibrant energy of New York City's childcare jingle contest will be captured through a visually striking, high-fashion texture study.NYC Today

Cardi B will serve as the judge for New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's 'Best Childcare Jingle' contest, where residents can submit 15 or 30-second jingles to promote the city's new free childcare program for 2-year-olds. The winner will be selected by public vote after Cardi B chooses the five finalists.

Why it matters

The contest is part of Mayor Mamdani's push for universal childcare in New York City, which he says will allow families to 'have both - free care in the greatest city in the world.' Cardi B's involvement is expected to generate significant interest and participation from New Yorkers.

The details

New Yorkers can submit their jingle entries to the NYC government website by April 17. Cardi B will then select five finalists before the public votes to choose the winner. The winning jingle will be used to promote Mamdani's '2-K' free childcare initiative for 2-year-olds, similar to the existing pre-K and 3-K programs.

  • The contest submission deadline is April 17, 2026.
  • Cardi B will select five finalists after the submission deadline.

The players

Cardi B

A Grammy-winning rapper who will serve as the judge for the 'Best Childcare Jingle' contest.

Zohran Mamdani

The newly elected mayor of New York City, who launched the 'Best Childcare Jingle' contest to promote his free childcare initiative for 2-year-olds.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like free childcare is very important. Sometimes, us women, we can't really go forward because we don't have nobody to help us take care of our kids.”

— Cardi B

“With universal childcare, New Yorkers won't have to. For too long, families have been forced to choose between affordable care and staying in the city they love. Now, they can have both — free care in the greatest city in the world.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The final winner of the 'Best Childcare Jingle' contest will be announced after the public voting period closes.

The takeaway

This contest highlights Mayor Mamdani's commitment to providing free, universal childcare for New York City families, with the involvement of a high-profile celebrity like Cardi B expected to drive significant participation and awareness.