Palestinian-American organiser Linda Sarsour asserted that the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) played a central financial role in Democrat Zohran Mamdani’s New York City mayoral bid, an allegation emerging at a sensitive political moment. According to reporting cited by the New York Post, Sarsour claimed that CAIR, which is currently under federal and congressional scrutiny due to accusations of links to Hamas, channelled significant resources into supporting Mamdani. She highlighted the CAIR-backed Unity and Justice Fund PAC and described it as the largest institutional donor aiding a pro-Mamdani committee. Public filings show that the PAC contributed roughly USD 120,000 to the “Lower Costs” pro-Mamdani super PAC, out of about USD 3 million in total spending during the election cycle.
These claims arise as CAIR faces a series of inquiries led by lawmakers, including Representative Elise Stefanik and Senator Tom Cotton, who have asked federal officials to investigate whether Hamas may have provided financing to the organisation in the past. Evidence presented during congressional proceedings has referenced allegations that CAIR initially received “seed money” from Hamas. Against this backdrop, Sarsour’s statements have given political opponents new ammunition and raised questions regarding Mamdani’s decision to accept support from groups currently facing national-security-related scrutiny.
Sarsour, associated with the Democratic Socialists of America and long considered a political ally and mentor to Mamdani, suggested in a recent public appearance that she may disclose further information about the campaign’s funding once the election has concluded. In her remarks, she emphasised the role she and her activist network played in elevating Mamdani’s political profile. She also implied that grassroots organisers expect continued influence and ideological alignment should he assume office, noting that if elected, Mamdani would remain accountable to the activist base that supported him and not merely to traditional party structures or establishment interests.
Mamdani entered the general election as the Democratic nominee after defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the June primary, and now competes against Cuomo, running as an independent, as well as Republican Curtis Sliwa. The funding controversy has injected an additional layer of scrutiny into one of the most closely watched municipal races in the United States, raising broader questions about transparency, ideological alliances, and the political boundaries of activist involvement in major urban campaigns.
