Controversial Interviews Ahead of Primaries
Mayor Zoran Mamdani and his local parliamentary candidates, sometimes referred to as the “Hamas Slate,” were recently interviewed by supporters of the terror group during their campaign for the upcoming primary elections.
Bartley Blakely, an individual criticized for spreading hate, has gathered a significant online following. In a recent social media post, he shared a conversation with Mamdani, along with three other candidates: Brad Lander, Claire Valdez, and Daria Riza Avila Chevalier.
Dov Hikind, a former Brooklyn state representative, voiced concerns, stating, “I call it the Hamas Slate. Unfortunately, it seems to have support.” He expressed a belief that supporting groups like Hamas is becoming a requirement to be part of the political establishment.
In an online video, Blakely drew comparisons between the slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and prominent civil rights figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. He argued that historical perceptions of leaders often shift after their deaths.
“You know who else they called terrorists? Nelson Mandela,” he remarked, suggesting that public opinion can be misleading during someone’s lifetime.
Blakely, who identifies as a non-binary leftist, previously failed to condemn Hamas for the acts committed on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of many civilians in Israel. When questioned, she initially distanced herself from blame but later noted a change of heart regarding her perspective.
During the interviews, Blakely pressed the candidates about potential legislation they would pursue if elected. Mamdani proposed supporting the Stop the Bomb Act, which seeks to restrict U.S. military aid to Israel without Congressional approval.
Lander, a progressive Zionist, remarked on the sentiment among voters who are increasingly uneasy about financial support for violence.
Blakely conveyed enthusiasm about the candidates’ camaraderie, highlighting their commitment to co-sponsoring the Bomb Stopping Act after the discussion.
During a previous video, Blakely fiercely defended Hamas, questioning why it is universally labeled a terrorist organization. In another instance, she suggested that American policies toward Israel contribute to global violence, linking these actions to historical events like September 11, 2001.
The election process is underway, with early voting available and the main voting day set for June 23. Blakely has been urging her followers to support certain candidates in the primaries.
Meanwhile, Mamdani and his associates have faced criticism for their associations, with opponents claiming that their collaboration with Hamas supporters perpetuates anti-Semitism.
William Jacobson, a law professor, expressed alarm, indicating this behavior is a troubling indication of the ongoing push against Jewish communities under the pretext of anti-Zionism. He emphasized that there are serious implications behind these interactions.
