Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy interviewed White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt about whether the Department of Justice (DOJ) might consider a lawsuit against Zohran Mamdani, who is expected to run for mayor in New York City.
Republican Rep. Andy Ogles from Tennessee has urged the DOJ to investigate Mamdani, suggesting that his rap lyrics from 2017 indicate potential support for terrorism-related activities. Mamdani allegedly did not condemn the phrase “globalize Intifada,” which Ogles interprets as concerning. During the interview, Doocy asked if the White House could assure that this investigation would take place.
Doocy noted that Rep. Ogles feels Mamdani’s lyrics might imply material support for terrorism, prompting Ogles to call for Attorney General Pam Bondi to explore potential actions related to Mamdani’s naturalization. “Is this really a valid use of the Attorney General’s time?” he questioned.
Leavitt responded, stating she hadn’t seen the claims but acknowledged that if they were true, they would merit an investigation. She deferred to the President for further commentary.
In a letter addressed to Attorney General Bondi, Ogles pointed out that Mamdani has expressed solidarity with the Holy Land Foundation, which was convicted in 2008 for providing “material support” to Hamas. Ogles highlighted Mamdani’s prior remarks, noting they might indicate undisclosed sympathies during his naturalization process.
Additionally, Mamdani has faced criticism for not condemning the phrase “globalization of intifadas,” which many view as a call for violence against Israel and the Jewish community globally, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
Doocy also probed whether former President Trump sought Mamdani’s deportation, to which Leavitt indicated that Trump had not made a definitive statement on the matter.
Leavitt assured that Trump is open to working with officials across the political spectrum, mentioning cooperation with Mamdani as well. “The president always wants to collaborate with everyone. He has a history of working with both sides, including Democrats and those in the middle. I think he sees value in engaging with elected officials like Mamdani,” she said.
Mamdani describes himself as a democratic socialist, advocating for policies like freezing rents, raising the minimum wage to $30, and establishing government-funded services such as public transportation, childcare, and grocery stores. He also stands firm on increasing taxes in wealthier neighborhoods, referring to it as addressing systemic inequality.
