Progressive Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is facing an onslaught of racially charged attacks, including accusations of being a 'terrorist sympathizer' and 'communist,' from former Governor Andrew Cuomo and other political figures. The campaign, which features manipulated images and racist AI-generated ads, also sees wealthy donors funding anti-Mamdani efforts as he vies to become New York City's first Muslim mayor.
The New York mayoral race has been characterized by an unprecedented level of personal vitriol and bigotry directed at progressive Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, who is set to become the city's first Muslim mayor. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has repeatedly launched racially charged attacks, referring to Mamdani as a 'terrorist sympathizer' and questioning his leadership in a post-9/11 scenario. Other prominent figures, including current Mayor Eric Adams and Donald Trump, have labeled Mamdani a 'communist,' while Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik called him a 'jihadist candidate.' Additionally, hundreds of New York rabbis signed an open letter condemning Mamdani for his criticism of Israel. The campaign has witnessed manipulated images and a quickly deleted, racist AI-generated ad from Cuomo's team, depicting Mamdani with negative stereotypes. Despite this barrage of anti-Muslim and racial bias, observers commend Mamdani's maturity and grace in handling the attacks. His grassroots support is viewed as a strength, countering criticisms about his political inexperience. Wealthy donors, including Bill Ackman and Michael Bloomberg, are actively pouring millions into anti-Mamdani PACs, underscoring the intense opposition from establishment figures. Mamdani, however, sees this concerted effort against him as a compliment, affirming his perceived threat to the status quo.
