Jay Jacobs Withholds Support for Mamdani in Mayoral Race
On Thursday, Jay Jacobs, the chairman of the New York Democratic Party, announced he would not endorse Zoran Mamdani in the upcoming New York City mayoral election.
“Mr. Mamdani and I share a concern about the growing income inequality in America,” Jacobs stated. “However, our approaches to addressing this issue are fundamentally different.”
Jacobs, who criticized Mamdani’s campaign as a “terror monarch” filled with “wrong things and terrible overreactions,” expressed his disagreements with Mamdani’s stance on Israel. He further remarked that the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), which includes Mamdani, does not align with “Democratic principles, values, or policies.”
Mamdani has been vocal in his critique of Israel’s actions during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Recently, he told the New York Times that he had called for the New York Police Department (NYPD) to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Hill reached out to Mamdani’s campaign for a response to Jacobs’ comments.
Jacobs’ decision comes on the heels of New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s endorsement of the party’s mayoral candidate earlier in the week. Hochul acknowledged the “Can-Do Spirit” of state legislators while highlighting areas of disagreement with Mamdani. She expressed confidence in the city’s ability to navigate current challenges.
Hochul noted, “I haven’t worked with Mamdani on any issues,” emphasizing her belief in the city’s resilience and positivity.
This support stands in stark contrast to two prominent Democratic figures in Congress, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Both have interacted with Mamdani but have refrained from endorsing his candidacy.
Mamdani secured an unexpected victory in the Democratic mayoral primary this past summer, outpacing several candidates, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The 33-year-old has focused his campaign on addressing the cost of living since it kicked off in October 2024.
New York Senator Gianaris labeled Jacobs’ decision as a “disgrace,” voicing his concerns about the party’s leadership. He questioned, “What is he doing if he doesn’t support candidates chosen by Democratic voters?”
According to a recent Emerson College Polling/PIX11/The Hill survey, 43% of respondents favor Mamdani in the mayoral race, while Cuomo, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and incumbent Mayor Eric Adams received 28%, 10%, and 7% support, respectively.
The general election is scheduled for November 4th.
