New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani announced he would more openly embrace his Muslim identity after attacks from former Governor Andrew Cuomo and other political rivals, which he described as “racist and baseless.” Speaking outside a Bronx mosque, Mamdani highlighted the ongoing fear and discrimination experienced by Muslim New Yorkers since 9/11, citing personal family experiences, including his aunt's avoidance of public transport due to safety concerns. He framed his announcement as a message to fellow Muslims who feel marginalized in the city.
Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and progressive contender, had previously downplayed his faith to avoid political backlash. He stated, “I thought if I behaved well enough, or bit my tongue enough, I’d be seen as more than just my faith. I was wrong.” He emphasized that he would no longer conceal his identity and would fully embrace his beliefs without compromise.
The escalation began when Cuomo appeared on a conservative radio show, joking that Mamdani might “be cheering” another 9/11 attack, and a campaign video briefly mischaracterized Mamdani’s supporters. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa also falsely accused Mamdani of supporting global jihad. Mayor Eric Adams suggested Mamdani’s election could increase security risks. Cuomo dismissed allegations of Islamophobia, claiming Mamdani was “playing the victim” and using divisive tactics.
Mamdani’s campaign surge has drawn national attention and endorsements, including from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, signaling growing support among progressive voters. The candidate’s response underscores broader discussions on Islamophobia, immigrant representation, and religious identity in New York City politics, as he positions himself as an advocate for equality and inclusion ahead of the election.
Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayoral candidate, has declared he will more openly embrace his Muslim identity after facing what he called “racist and baseless” attacks from former Governor Andrew Cuomo and other political rivals. Speaking outside a Bronx mosque, Mamdani recounted how Muslim New Yorkers, including his own family, have endured fear and discrimination since 9/11. He framed his statement as a message to fellow Muslims who feel marginalized, asserting that he would no longer conceal his faith.
Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and progressive candidate, previously downplayed his religion to avoid political backlash. He said, “I thought if I behaved well enough, or bit my tongue enough, I’d be seen as more than just my faith. I was wrong.” He emphasized that he will now fully embrace his beliefs and identity without compromise.
The controversy escalated when Cuomo joked on a conservative radio show that Mamdani might “be cheering” another 9/11 attack. A Cuomo campaign video briefly mischaracterized Mamdani’s supporters, while Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa falsely accused him of supporting global jihad. Mayor Eric Adams also implied that Mamdani’s election could increase security risks. Cuomo dismissed the claims of Islamophobia, saying Mamdani was “playing the victim” and attempting to divide people.
Mamdani’s campaign momentum has attracted national attention, including an endorsement from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. His stance highlights ongoing debates over Islamophobia, immigrant representation, and religious identity in New York City politics, as he positions himself as a candidate advocating equality and inclusion ahead of the mayoral election.
