Jewish Democratic lawmakers on Capitol Hill have raised concerns about Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic socialist candidate for mayor, particularly because of his refusal to recognize Israel as a Jewish state, especially in light of rising anti-Semitism in the U.S.
“His blatant disregard for anti-Semitism and acts of terrorism is concerning, especially since he’s willing to brush off the term ‘globalization of intifadas,'” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL).
“I feel like no one I care about can continue to support him,” Wasserman Schultz added, noting the potential dangers of his statements. “It’s really troubling and intrusive.”
According to a source familiar with the discussions taking place among Democrats, the popularity of self-identified democratic socialists like Mamdani is becoming a significant topic on Capitol Hill.
Besides dismissing the term “globalization of intifadas” and not affirming Israel as a Jewish state, Mamdani has also backed the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel following the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, accusing Israel of apartheid.
“When prominent candidates use dangerous rhetoric that can incite violence, it’s alarming,” a Democratic representative commented. “It demonstrates he might not be prepared for such a position.”
Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL), another Jewish Democratic representative, noted that when Mamdani referred to “globalization of intifadas” as a peaceful statement, Mamdani reportedly expressed an intention to “ignore or gaslight” those who disagree with him.
“I think he’s mistaken on many of these issues,” Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) stated, adding that if Mamdani can’t recognize the anti-Semitic implications of his words, he’s likely to continue misrepresenting the issues involved.
Mamdani, who is a Muslim originally from Uganda, faced backlash in New York City after his appearance on the Bullwork podcast, where he refused to condemn the term “globalization of intifadas.”
The 33-year-old candidate later appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press, where he again did not condemn the phrase, despite being asked multiple times.
When questioned during a Democratic mayoral debate about whether he views Israel as a Jewish state, Mamdani stated, “I believe Israel has a right to exist,” but then emphasized the need for equal rights for all.
Despite the criticism, Mamdani has not altered his approach. Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) remarked that this stance is particularly troubling given the surge in anti-Semitic incidents.
“The two Jews killed here in Washington, D.C. were there at events related to our community, and in Boulder, where Jews were attacked. That’s certainly a significant concern for us.”
