Controversy Erupts Over Text Messages in NYC Mayoral Primary
A Jewish resident of New York found themselves taken aback by a text message received during the mayoral primary on October 7, 2023. This message, sent from someone claiming to represent victims of the recent terrorist attacks, began circulating among Democratic voters.
The strange message suggested that a group of Israeli vocal critics and Orthodox Jews were backing Zoran Mamdani, claiming support for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “I’m Jewish and wear a kippa every day, and I support Zoran, so I want to take a break from that,” the text stated.
Many were taken aback after a community member shared the text, expressing shock and disgust. The sender mentioned personal ties to the tragedy, saying, “My friend Idan was murdered at the Re’im Music Festival on October 7th. The war affects many in our community. Like Zoran, Idan believed in peace.”
This unexpected message followed other Jewish voters’ responses declaring that they wouldn’t vote for Mamdani, calling the tactic of using memories of the deceased “exploitative.”
Some voters felt “unsettled” and “disgusted” by the implication that other Jews were, in fact, supporting him. The authenticity of the message’s sender remains uncertain, as it could be a political maneuver or simply a misunderstanding.
Another New Yorker who received the same text pointed out it didn’t seem genuine, claiming it echoed the same narrative using their identity. Mamdani has made statements regarding his positions on contentious issues, promising to take action against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he enter the city and resisting what he terms as calls for violence against Jewish people.
His campaign has stressed that he does not espouse anti-Semitic views. Meanwhile, a Jewish watchdog group criticized the messaging for its insensitive timing and content.
Liora Rez, founder of Stopantisemitism, voiced strong opposition to Mamdani, stating, “NYC, home to one of the largest Jewish populations outside of Israel, is unlikely to follow someone like Zoran Mamdani who appears to antagonize Jews.”
Mamdani’s campaign has not offered any comments in response to these developments.
