
Mayoral forum at Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Manhattan, USA – 05 June 2025
(New York, NY) — New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani got teary eyed on the campaign trail Wednesday, as he talked about what it’s like to be the first ever Muslim to run for City Hall. He says he, and others around him have received death threats. Mamdani say those threats mention his Muslim religion.
The Democratic Socialist also addressed rumors that he is antisemitic. He said, “It pains me to be called an antisemite” and he noted that he’s repeatedly said that “there’s no room for antisemitism in the city or this country.” The 34-year-old was asked Wednesday about his apparent defense of the term, “Globalize the Intifadah.” He didn’t answer the question that many New York Jews interpret as a call to violence.
On Monday, Mamdani picked up another endorsement. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is endorsing the fellow Democrat. In making the announcement, Sanders released a statement saying “We need a new politics and new leadership which is prepared to stand up to powerful corporate interests and fight for the working class.” Mamdani has been polling second to Cuomo in the crowded Democratic primary race. Early voting is underway with primary election day next Tuesday.