Support for New York City Mayoral Candidate Zoran Mamdani

House Democrats expressed their support for mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani after a closed breakfast meeting on Wednesday with Councillor Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

This gathering comes as Mamdani, who achieved a surprising victory in the Democratic primary in June, aims to solidify his backing as the party’s nominee. He is also scheduled to meet with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).

Mamdani has been under scrutiny since embracing his democratic socialist identity while distancing himself from controversial remarks like the phrase “globalization of intifadas,” which has been used by certain Palestinian activists amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

However, feedback from lawmakers who attended the breakfast seems positive. Reports indicate that some attendees described the meeting as “well” and found Mamdani to be “stimulating.”

They also noted that the controversial phrase was not a topic of discussion.

Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), a ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, shared on X that Mamdani received an “energetic and warm” welcome and expressed gratitude to Ocasio-Cortez for organizing the event. He added, “I’m proud of the Democratic candidate for NYC mayor. Let’s win!”

Mamdani even shared Garcia’s post.

Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), former chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, labeled the meeting as “fantastic.” She described Mamdani as talented, clever, and genuine, emphasizing that those who do not support him may be “missing opportunities.”

Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) pointed out a potential challenge for Mamdani: older individuals might associate “socialism” with figures like Stalin and Castro. He noted, however, that Ocasio-Cortez views it as a movement for young people fighting corruption and advocating for workers.

He expressed his eagerness to meet Mamdani.

Still, some lawmakers were cautious when discussing their support for Mamdani’s candidacy.

Rep. Luz Rivas (D-Calif.) mentioned that Mamdani offered valuable insights on using social media to communicate effectively. Throughout his campaign, Mamdani has skillfully utilized social media, attracting significant attention.

Rivas appreciated the opportunity to learn from him but clarified that the meeting wasn’t solely focused on support and communication techniques.

Other Democratic members present, including Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), and Sidney Kamlager Dove (D-Calif.), left without making comments to the media.

Meetings with officials were reportedly held consecutively on Tuesday. He reiterated that he would refrain from using the term “intifada globalization” and encouraged others to do the same.