Democrats in New York’s suburban areas are distancing themselves from mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, concerned about his left-leaning socialist views.
Members of the Long Island Council are particularly apprehensive of Republicans attempting to link them to Mamdani, who is running as the Democratic candidate in the 2026 midterms.
“We’re not socialists,” Rep. Laura Gillen, who represents the fourth district in Nassau County, stated in a recent interview. She emphasized that the campaign focused more on promises than a concrete economic strategy to support them.
Rep. Tom Suozzi, who previously endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primaries and supported Mayor Eric Adams, similarly expressed his reservations about Mamdani, noting that his concerns about the candidate persist.
Gillen criticized Mamdani’s proposal to raise taxes on the top 1% of earners and businesses, aiming to generate $9 billion, calling it unrealistic. Lawmakers argue that such tax increases, which would need the approval of both the governor and state legislature, could do more harm than good.
“New York City is the economic engine that drives our state, and we need to ensure it thrives,” Gillen added.
“Mamdani’s socialist platform is not suitable for New York City,” she remarked, underscoring their resistance.
Gillen and Suozzi were both elected in closely contested House races last year. Their statements come as the National Republican Congressional Campaign Committee aims to spotlight mayors with ties to democratic socialism, particularly in districts where such views struggle to find support.
NRCC spokeswoman Maureen O’Toole commented that the resolve shown by Suozzi and Gillen demonstrates that Democrats lack a cohesive plan or leadership.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer congratulated Mamdani on his victory but have yet to express support.
Meanwhile, New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand criticized Mamdani for not disavowing specific phrases associated with global conflicts. In an interview, she conveyed concerns from constituents regarding Mamdani’s prior statements on various issues, particularly relating to Israel.
Gillibrand argued that rhetoric praising violence against Jewish communities raises legitimate fears among New Yorkers, stating that such sentiments could incite danger.
According to her, Mamdani assured her of his commitment to protect all residents, including Jewish communities in New York City.
President Trump has also targeted Mamdani, labeling him a “100% Communist Madman”, a comment he made on social media.
