Open Letter Criticizes Sen. John Liu’s Support for Zoran Mamdani
Jewish leaders and activists have come together to sign an open letter reproaching Queens Senator John Liu for endorsing Zoran Mamdani, who is viewed as an adversary to Israel, according to reports.
The letter, which includes signatures from many Jewish residents in Queens, expresses that Liu’s support feels like a betrayal.
Michael Nussbaum, a director at the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York and former leader at the Queens Jewish Community Council, is hosting the publication of this letter as an ad in a local Jewish publication.
In the letter, it states, “Mamdani has made it evident that he is openly anti-Semitic in both his words and actions… as our county leader, your endorsement feels like a slap in our face.”
The letter further criticizes the lack of awareness regarding historical animosity towards the Jewish community surrounding Liu’s support.
Liu represents a diverse district in northeast Queens, which has a significant Jewish population. His backing of Mamdani is considered a major move.
Mamdani has openly supported boycotts and sanctions against Israel and has questioned the legitimacy of its existence as a Jewish state.
Though he has been a respected figure in the Asian American community, questions are being raised about Liu’s support for a candidate perceived as drastically opposed to Jewish interests.
Nussbaum expressed his disbelief at Liu endorsing a candidate seen as anti-Semitic, asking, “Why is he backing someone who is an enemy to Israel and the Jewish people?”
In comments made on June 2, Liu acknowledged having “significant disagreements” with Mamdani and other democratic socialist lawmakers regarding Israel and the Jewish community’s role in the current social landscape.
However, Nussbaum indicated he did not find Liu’s rationale for the endorsement convincing.
He emphasized that the well-being of the Jewish community is a significant issue, especially amid rising anti-Semitism.
Others who signed the letter include Jeffrey Wiesenfeld, former CUNY council member Janib Meilov, and Cantor Alan Brava, among various leaders in the local Jewish community.
The letter concludes by referencing a biblical quote: “Even my best friend, whom I trusted, shared my bread, and he lifted his heels against me.”
Liu has defended his support for Mamdani in a statement, asserting his commitment to the Jewish community. He mentioned, “This public responsibility, and many personal protests, stem from respected individuals and organizations I’ve worked alongside for years. I acknowledge them and the consequences that come with them.”
He reiterated his intent to continue supporting the Jewish community in spite of the backlash from his endorsement.
