Zohran Mamdani’s Antisemitism Disqualifies Him From NYC Mayoral Race

New York City, a melting pot of cultures and home to a significant Jewish population, deserves a mayor who stands firmly against all forms of hate. However, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani’s recent actions and long-standing rhetoric raise serious concerns about his suitability for the city’s highest office. His failure to unequivocally condemn antisemitism and his demonstrated animosity toward the state of Israel cast a dark shadow over his candidacy, making him unfit to lead a city as diverse and vibrant as New York.

Mamdani’s actions, particularly his reluctance to support resolutions recognizing the Holocaust and Israeli statehood, speak volumes about his values and priorities. In a city that prides itself on inclusivity and tolerance, such behavior is not only unacceptable but also disqualifying. This article delves into the specifics of Mamdani’s troubling record, examining the implications of his views and why they render him unsuitable for the mayoralty.

We will explore his non-votes on crucial resolutions, his history of anti-Israel statements, and the endorsements he has accepted from figures with similar views. By examining these issues, we aim to provide a clear understanding of why Zohran Mamdani’s antisemitism should disqualify him from the mayoral race, urging voters to consider the profound consequences of electing a leader who fails to uphold the values of respect and inclusivity.

Mamdani’s Troubling Non-Votes on Holocaust and Israeli Statehood Resolutions

One of the most glaring red flags in Zohran Mamdani’s record is his refusal to vote for resolutions in the New York State Assembly that recognize the Holocaust and Israeli statehood. These resolutions, which should have been universally supported, faced inexplicable opposition from Mamdani, raising serious questions about his commitment to combating antisemitism. In a city with the largest Jewish population in the world, such a stance is particularly alarming.

His spokesman, Andrew Epstein, has attempted to downplay the significance of these non-votes, claiming that Mamdani supports the Holocaust Memorial Day resolution but wants to “narrow down” the number he signed. This explanation strains credulity. Mamdani has readily supported resolutions for various other causes, including Neurodiversity Pride Day, Juneteenth, Lunar New Year, Women’s History Month, Disabilities Awareness Day, and Korean American Day. Why, then, would he hesitate to support resolutions related to the Holocaust and Israeli statehood?

The timing of these non-votes is particularly troubling. Coming amid rising antisemitism both domestically and globally, Mamdani’s reluctance sends a chilling message. It suggests a lack of solidarity with the Jewish community and a failure to recognize the importance of standing firmly against hate. This is not the kind of leadership New York City needs or deserves.

“This, in a city with more Jews than any other in the world…The resolutions weren’t the least bit controversial — that is, for anyone with even a shred of moral sense.”

History of Anti-Israel Statements and Actions

Beyond his non-votes on key resolutions, Zohran Mamdani has a documented history of making anti-Israel statements and taking actions that demonstrate a clear bias against the Jewish state. These statements and actions further underscore his unsuitability for the New York City mayoralty, a position that requires a balanced and fair approach to all communities and international issues.

Notably, on October 8, 2023, the day after Jews experienced their worst horror since the Holocaust, Mamdani chose to condemn Israel. This insensitive and poorly timed condemnation reveals a deep-seated animosity that is deeply troubling. In a moment when the Jewish community needed support and solidarity, Mamdani instead chose to amplify division and hostility.

Mamdani has also vowed that, as mayor, he would arrest Benjamin Netanyahu should the Israeli leader dare set foot in New York. This provocative statement not only demonstrates a lack of diplomatic acumen but also reveals a disturbing disregard for the relationship between New York City and Israel, a key ally and partner.

These statements and actions paint a clear picture of a candidate who is not only critical of Israeli policies but fundamentally opposed to the existence of the Jewish state. Such a stance is untenable for a mayoral candidate in a city with a large and vibrant Jewish community.

Endorsement from Jamaal Bowman: A Troubling Alliance

The recent endorsement of Zohran Mamdani by former Representative Jamaal Bowman, a figure known for his own controversial statements and actions, further cements the perception of Mamdani as a candidate with troubling views on antisemitism and Israel. Bowman’s endorsement is not merely a political alliance; it is a validation of Mamdani’s rhetoric and policies, signaling to voters that Mamdani shares similar values and priorities.

Jamaal Bowman has a well-documented history of making statements that have been widely criticized as antisemitic. His alignment with Mamdani sends a clear message about the kind of company Mamdani keeps and the values he is willing to embrace in pursuit of political power. This is a deeply concerning development that should give pause to all New Yorkers.

Mamdani’s acceptance of Bowman’s endorsement is equally troubling. By welcoming Bowman’s support, Mamdani is signaling his approval of Bowman’s views and actions. This alliance suggests that Mamdani is not only tolerant of antisemitism but may even share some of the same biases.

“No wonder ex-Rep. Jamaal Bowman — who harassed women en masse on Oct. 7 — happily endorsed Mamdani this week…And Mamdani happily accepted the endorsement: They’re antisemitic peas in a pod.”

The Implications for New York City

The prospect of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City carries significant implications for the city’s social and political landscape. His documented history of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment raises serious concerns about his ability to fairly represent and serve all of New York’s diverse communities.

New York City prides itself on its diversity and inclusivity. A mayor who harbors bias against any community undermines these core values and creates an environment of division and distrust. Mamdani’s actions and statements suggest that he is not committed to fostering unity and respect among all New Yorkers.

His stance on Israel could also harm New York City’s relationship with a key ally. New York has a long history of supporting Israel, and a mayor who is openly hostile to the Jewish state could strain this important relationship. This could have negative consequences for the city’s economy, security, and international standing.

Moreover, Mamdani’s views could embolden antisemites and other hatemongers in New York City. A mayor who fails to condemn hate sends a dangerous message that such behavior is acceptable. This could lead to an increase in hate crimes and discrimination, making New York City a less safe and welcoming place for Jewish people and other minority groups.

Beyond Antisemitism: Mamdani’s Broader Agenda

While Zohran Mamdani’s antisemitism is a primary reason for concern, it is also important to consider his broader political agenda. Mamdani is a self-described socialist with a track record of supporting policies that would fundamentally transform New York City.

His support for defunding the police in 2020, for example, is a deeply troubling position that would endanger public safety. In a city that has struggled with rising crime rates, defunding the police would only exacerbate the problem. Mamdani’s commitment to this policy demonstrates a lack of understanding of the needs of New York City and a willingness to prioritize ideology over the safety of its residents.

Mamdani’s socialist agenda also includes policies that would harm the city’s economy. His support for higher taxes, increased regulations, and government intervention in the private sector would stifle job creation and investment, making New York City a less attractive place to do business.

These policies, combined with his antisemitism, make Zohran Mamdani a uniquely dangerous candidate for mayor of New York City. He is not only biased against certain communities but also committed to policies that would harm the city’s economy and endanger public safety.

Conclusion: An Unsuitable Candidate for New York City

In conclusion, Zohran Mamdani’s documented history of antisemitism, anti-Israel sentiment, and support for radical policies makes him an unsuitable candidate for mayor of New York City. His non-votes on key resolutions, inflammatory statements, and alliances with controversial figures raise serious concerns about his ability to fairly represent and serve all of New York’s diverse communities.

New York City deserves a mayor who is committed to inclusivity, tolerance, and unity. Mamdani has demonstrated that he does not share these values. His election would send a dangerous message that bias and hate are acceptable in New York City, undermining the city’s core principles and endangering its social and political fabric.

As New Yorkers prepare to cast their votes in the upcoming mayoral election, it is imperative that they carefully consider the implications of electing a leader with such troubling views. The future of New York City depends on choosing a mayor who will uphold the values of respect, fairness, and equality for all.

When it comes time for ranked-choice voting for the Democratic nomination for mayor next month, no one should rank Mamdani at all.