Multiple Democrats and media figures are urging New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to disavow the term “globalization of intifadas,” which many view as a code for violence against Jews.
In a Thursday interview with WNYC’s Brian Lehrer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated that the phrase is perceived as a call to “slaughter Jews.” She mentioned that Mamdani needs to grasp how this language impacts the Jewish community.
During an interview on “Meet the Press,” host Kristen Welker pressed Mamdani three times to denounce the phrase, but he did not. Earlier this month, he also avoided condemning the term when interviewed by Tim Miller from Bluwork.
Gillibrand, discussing with Lehrer, remarked, “If I were speaking directly with him, I’d say it’s not about the intent behind the words. For many Jewish Americans, using terms like Intifada can imply approval of violence against Jews.”
Gillibrand emphasized that Mamdani should take a firm stance, noting they had previously discussed the importance of safeguarding all citizens.
In speaking with Welker, Mamdani insisted that the responsibilities of a mayor shouldn’t include policing language. He expressed that he doesn’t use such phrases and stressed his commitment to protecting all New Yorkers, albeit while deflecting from explicitly condemning the term and drawing attention to President Donald Trump.
“Wading into language control can lead to troubling precedents, similar to those seen under the previous president,” he remarked. “It’s about actions and intent, not just words.”
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries pointed out during ABC’s “This Week” that candidates need to clarify their stances on controversial phrases like this one. He stated that “globalizing an intifada is unacceptable,” adding that candidates should address the concerns of the Jewish community about rising anti-Semitism in New York City.
Rep. Ritchie Torres echoed these sentiments on CNN, asserting that all elected officials are obligated to denounce hate in all its forms, including anti-Semitism. He characterized the second intifada as a series of violent attacks that resulted in substantial loss of life.
Jewish leader Donnie Germany expressed his frustration regarding Mamdani’s candidacy on MSNBC, arguing that phrases like “globalize the intifada” are inherently concerning. He questioned why Jewish fears of violence don’t garner the same serious attention as those of other groups.
Pastor Al Sharpton joined the discussion, asserting that Mamdani must clarify his stance, as he is running for a significant position in New York.
In a conversation on MSNBC, Chris Hayes critiqued Mamdani’s responses, suggesting they were insufficient for the gravity of the situation.
Mamdani’s campaign hasn’t responded to requests for comment. His recent successes in the liberal city have drawn criticism from Republicans, with Rep. Riley Moore describing his rise as a “gift” for the Republican Party, suggesting it could lead to political opportunities in future elections.
