Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) expressed hesitance on Sunday regarding his support for New York City mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, mainly due to concerns about increasing anti-Semitism in the city.
During a CBS New York interview on “Points with Marcia Kramer,” the moderate Democrat noted that while he and Mamdani share views on affordability and housing issues, he wants to see more decisive actions from Democratic Socialists in Congress.
“I had some productive discussions with Zoran Mamdani right after the primary. We align on many points regarding affordability and the challenges surrounding the housing crisis,” Goldman remarked when asked about his potential support.
He added that he is looking for Mamdani’s stance on free public resources within the state.
Nonetheless, Goldman emphasized his desire to see a stronger commitment from Mamdani to handle the valid concerns about anti-Semitism felt by Jewish New Yorkers.
“As a mayor, he needs to take responsibility for the safety of all New Yorkers, including Jewish residents, who have legitimate fears,” Goldman stated.
“Seventy percent of religion-based hate crimes are directed at Jews,” he continued. “This problem is escalating. It’s not just rumors or slurs on campuses; it’s resulting in violent acts, even murder, in the name of anti-Semitism.”
The FBI’s 2024 Hate Crime Report, released recently, indicated that Jews were the targets of 69% of all religiously motivated hate crimes in the U.S. last year, with this figure rising to 85% in New York City.
In 2024, Jews accounted for 52% of hate crimes reported in New York City, starkly contrasting with the 6% aimed at Black, Asian, and Muslim communities.
“I urged him to seriously consider making concrete steps to guarantee the safety and protection of Jews in our cities,” Goldman added.
This discussion arises as some state leaders are hesitant to back left-leaning candidates who struggle to connect with average voters, particularly after the Republicans gained significant ground in Washington last November.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) recently voiced support for Mamdani’s mayoral campaign, yet two prominent Congressional Democrats—Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries—have so far refrained from lending their backing in this closely watched race.
