Zohran Mamdani’s Radical Agenda Sparks Outcry Among Jewish Democrats

Brooklyn, New York – The rise of Zohran Mamdani, a socialist Democrat running for mayor of New York City, has ignited controversy within the Jewish Democratic community. The 34-year-old candidate recently admitted that pro-Israel Americans would not be welcome in his coalition, drawing sharp criticism. His campaign gained further scrutiny after a photo surfaced showing him posing with Imam Siraj Wahhaj, linked to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing trial.

Mamdani’s perceived antisemitic tendencies have extended beyond New York, as reports suggest some top Democrats are pushing to remove Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, the state’s lone pro-Israel liberal. Fetterman’s defense of U.S.-Israel relations clashes with the Democratic Party’s progressive shift. Meanwhile, figures like Minnesota State Senator Omar Fateh and Minneapolis mayoral candidate have echoed Mamdani’s rhetoric, further distancing the party from its centrist roots.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Governor Kathy Hochul have faced backlash for their support of Mamdani despite his controversial positions. Hochul’s endorsement in September has fueled concerns among Jewish voters, while U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ backing underscores the party’s alignment with left-wing ideologies. Recent polls show Mamdani retains 29-38% Jewish support in New York City, below Trump’s 45% in 2024, as smaller Jewish communities increasingly shift toward Republicans.

In New Jersey, Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli gained momentum after the Lakewood Jewish Councils endorsed him, marking a departure from past Democratic loyalties. Similar trends are seen in Bergen County, where Republicans attract Jewish voters disillusioned by the party’s leftward turn.

The Democratic Party’s embrace of Mamdani has been condemned as a betrayal by Jewish New Yorkers, who view it as part of a broader pattern of neglecting their concerns. As the election approaches, the fallout from this alignment continues to reshape political dynamics in key states.