A recent advertisement from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) portrays Zoran Mamdani, a Democratic mayoral candidate in New York City, as the “socialist boss” of the Democratic Party. This 30-second spot was released on the same day that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries showed his support for Mamdani in his home city.
The ad includes the phrase, “Together, we can raise taxes, defund the police, and build a socialist New York,” and prominently features the hammer and sickle, symbols often linked to communism.
It’s set to air in 12 districts across New York and seven in New Jersey, highlighting the Democratic candidate alongside Mamdani in each location.
Among the targeted current members of Congress are Rep. Nellie Paugh (New Jersey), Rep. Tom Suozzi (New York), Rep. Laura Gillen (New York), Rep. Josh Riley (New York), and Rep. John Mannion (New York). There are also challengers, including Rebecca Bennett, Megan O’Rourke, Michael Ross, Tina Sher, Brian Barrera, Greg Vartan, and others from both states.
According to NRCC spokeswoman Maureen O’Toole, “All of them own the socialist agenda and are active accomplices in the party’s own destruction.”
Republicans have criticized Mamdani’s proposals for free childcare, rent freezes, and trial city-run grocery stores.
In a statement backing Mamdani, Jeffries noted that the candidate’s focus on lowering living costs would help all New Yorkers, a sentiment he echoed following endorsements from several other prominent Democrats.
“Zoran Mamdani has made a clear commitment to be a mayor for all New Yorkers, including those who do not support his candidacy, with a relentless focus on addressing the affordability crisis,” Jeffries stated, expressing his support for both Mamdani and the full Democratic ticket in the upcoming citywide election.
Interestingly, Jeffries also mentioned having “principled differences” with Mamdani’s team.
Mamdani, currently a state lawmaker, holds a substantial lead over Republican Curtis Sliwa and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has charted an independent path following his defeat by Mamdani in the primary.
