A coalition of Jewish leaders is calling on Jewish Democrats to support socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. They believe that if they fail to unite around candidates who are critical of Israel, they risk losing ground to similar democratic socialists pushed by American-backed contenders.
The “Jews for Zohran” initiative, which aims to rally Jewish politicians behind Mamdani, includes several prominent figures, such as Mayors Brad Lander and Representative Jerrold Nadler, who shared their support with the Post.
One unnamed lawmaker mentioned that they would be attending a meeting with Mamdani and Jewish leaders to discuss these developments.
The meeting is tentatively planned for Monday morning at Union Hall, according to sources familiar with the situation.
City Secretary Lander, who came in third during the mayoral primary, has been one of Mamdani’s strongest advocates within the Jewish community. He actively supported Mamdani during the primaries as a top choice.
Nadler, the most senior member of New York’s House delegation, has backed Mamdani since he won the Democratic primary, reinforcing his support for Manhattan as his constituency.
Yet, supporting Mamdani is a challenging position for some Jewish politicians, especially given that many members are frustrated that Democratic candidates have not denounced the rallying cry of “globalizing the intifadas.” Mamdani also endorses boycotts and sanctions against Israel, which complicates his appeal.
Despite this, there is pressure from the party’s left to avoid dissent. If Mamdani wins the general election in November, he will be the city’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. He won against former Governor Andrew Cuomo by focusing on financial issues.
Reports suggest lawmakers are worried that Mamdani’s Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) allies could challenge them if they do not support him.
“They are waving white flags,” remarked one Jewish activist, expressing frustration with the situation.
Former city council member Rory Rankman has urged Jewish Democrats to resist the push to back Mamdani, advocating for prioritizing principles over party loyalty.
Many moderate Jewish lawmakers remain hesitant about supporting socialist candidates, reflecting a broader unease.
Jay Jacobs, a key Democrat leader in Nassau and an ally of Governor Kathy Hochul, has not taken a public stance on Mamdani’s victory.
Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has congratulated Mamdani but has not yet offered his support, which leaves some area representatives in a bind regarding their stance.
Jewish House Democrats from elsewhere, including former DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz, have voiced concerns over Mamdani’s anti-Israel sentiments, particularly in the context of rising anti-Semitism.
As of now, no further comments from the Mamdani campaign have emerged.
