Ocasio-Cortez Supports Mamdani in NYC Mayoral Race

On Wednesday morning, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez brought together NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani for a breakfast event in Washington, D.C. The gathering aimed to strengthen support for Mamdani’s campaign.

Ocasio-Cortez, who represents New York, voiced her endorsement for Mamdani during the city’s Democratic primary, aligning with him on a range of socialist policies he advocates.

Among his proposals, Mamdani has expressed intentions to implement rent freezes for all rent-stabilized units, offer taxpayer-funded bus rides, provide taxpayer-supported childcare, and establish city-owned grocery stores.

However, his plans have faced significant backlash, particularly his suggestion to raise corporate tax rates to fund these initiatives.

Ocasio-Cortez expressed her excitement about meeting Mamdani in person and emphasized her interest in understanding his vision for making New York more affordable for everyday workers.

“I think many folks need to connect before endorsing someone. I hope this meeting helps unify the party around our candidate,” she noted before the event.

Mamdani is also set to meet with Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. However, neither leader has publicly backed Mamdani yet.

“I’m looking forward to discussing the issues in D.C. with Congressman Jeffries and Senator Schumer, as well as other party leaders nationwide,” Mamdani shared on Tuesday.

Despite Mamdani’s optimism, both Jeffries and Schumer announced they would not be meeting with him in D.C. They mentioned they had plans to connect with him later in Brooklyn.

“I’m scheduled to meet with the Democratic nominee at the end of the week in Brooklyn,” Jeffries told reporters.

In the lead-up to the November general election, some House Democrats have quickly rallied behind Mamdani.

“Zohran Mamdani is an exceptional talent. I’m proud to have endorsed him prior to the primary,” remarked Rep. Pramila Jayapal.

“Any politicians remaining neutral at this stage are missing a great opportunity,” she added.

In a separate commentary, former President Donald Trump has condemned Mamdani, referring to him as a “Communist.”

“I don’t think this country is ready for a Communist, but we’ll see. I don’t believe the race is over yet,” Trump remarked, suggesting that Andrew Cuomo should remain in the race despite his initial defeat in the primary.

“He’s up against a Communist. This might give him a good chance to win,” Trump commented.

Mamdani has cleverly used Trump’s comments to gain political traction against Cuomo.

“We want to congratulate Andrew Cuomo on receiving Trump’s endorsement. This certainly speaks volumes. The real question is whether Cuomo will publicly accept this support or keep it private,” said campaign spokesperson Jeffrey Lerner.

Mamdani is also competing against Independent Mayor Eric Adams and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.