A Democrat vying for the position of Nassau County district attorney has issued a warning to the state Republican Party regarding an advertisement that links her to the socialist mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, as reported by the Post.
Nicole Alloise’s legal team sent a “cease and desist” letter to the Republican Elections Committee earlier this month, stating that the ad was “completely fabricated, false and defamatory.”
One advertisement claims, “Nicole Aloise supports Mamdani.”
Another displays side-by-side images of Aloise and Mamdani, labeling them as “political twins.”
The attorney representing Aloise, Anthony Ratbari, threatened legal action for defamation if the Republican Party, which backs current Republican state Representative Anne Donnelly, continues to air the ad.
“This statement has no sources and is completely fabricated, false and defamatory,” Ratbari noted in the October 10 letter.
He also accused Republicans of misrepresenting Aloise’s stance on controversial topics such as the state’s bail reform, Rikers Island prison conditions, and disciplinary issues.
Ratbari stated, “All of the above statements are false, defamatory and contrary to readily available facts.” He also emphasized that these statements were made with “reckless disregard for the truth” and appeared to be aimed at damaging Aloise’s reputation.
In his warning, he said, “You are therefore hereby directed to immediately cease and desist from republishing the aforesaid statements. Failure to comply may result in legal action being taken without further notice.”
The Republican Party shrugged off the legal threats, claiming that Aloise and other Democrats maintain close ties with Mamdani, who has faced criticism for his stance on Israel.
Ed Cox, a spokesperson for the state Republican Party, remarked, “It would be strange if it weren’t such a sad commentary on the state of the Democratic Party.”
Emails from Republicans highlighting their attacks on Aloise have surfaced, with particular focus on her association with Mamdani.
Despite Mamdani being supported by Governor Kathy Hochul, Aloise and other Long Island Democrats have sought to distance themselves from the controversial congressman.
Aloise has previously expressed her disapproval, saying, “Zoran Mamdani was the wrong choice as mayor, and I disagree with his views on cashless bail and defunding the police.”
Her spokesperson, Ellen McCormick, criticized the alleged Republican attacks, claiming, “Given Donnelly’s history of ousting career prosecutors, increasing crime, and severing ties with Nassau law enforcement, the only course left for her is to lie about her opponents.” McCormick concluded, “Nassau voters know this well: They deserve an honest district attorney, not desperate smear tactics.”
