New York City Candidate Responds to Trump’s “Communist” Label
Zoran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for mayor in New York City, sidestepped a question regarding President Donald Trump’s assertion that he is a “communist” during an interview with Fox News’ Nate Foy on Wednesday.
Foy referenced a report where Mamdani’s supporters defended him against the “communist” label and asked the self-identified democratic socialist if the difference between communism and socialism was significant. “Is there a bit of communism in your platform?” Foy inquired.
Mamdani’s Supporters Back Him Despite Trump’s Remarks
Since Mamdani’s surprising success in the primary elections, the label of “communist” has stuck. His supporters, however, downplayed this term at a canvassing event at Prospect Park, claiming his victory is about more than mere labels.
Nina, a volunteer wearing a “Zoran Educator” T-shirt, voiced her thoughts, “It wasn’t communism that secured the primary win; it’s the vision he offers of a more affordable New York City. That’s what voters chose, and I believe that will carry him through.”
This sentiment echoed among various supporters, who highlighted Mamdani’s backing from progressive figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Trump had called Mamdani a “100% communist madman” following his primary victory in June.
Perry, another volunteer, countered the narrative around Mamdani’s label by remarking, “Look at who labels him; it’s often from those who don’t truly get what he stands for.”
Two teachers from Brooklyn, Bridget and Perry, shook their heads when asked if these labels worried them. “Honestly, it’s not about ideology,” said Nicholas, a supporter volunteering that day. “We aren’t trying to turn these terms into something negative. In fact, I think most Americans don’t fully grasp what these concepts mean.”
Fox News Digital even posed the question to everyday New Yorkers in Union Square. One voter, Ritvik, mentioned he was supporting Mamdani in November but wasn’t overly bothered by the “communist” label, despite leaning more conservative himself. “This kind of talk has always been part of the Trump playbook, so I can’t say I’m shocked,” he noted.
Another supporter, Ian, recognized the tension between Mamdani and Trump, yet appreciated Mamdani’s dedication to addressing issues pertinent to New Yorkers.
Last week, Mamdani embarked on a week-long “Five Boroughs” tour throughout the city, continuing to engage with voters.
On Wednesday, he spoke to the press after joining a rally held by the Hotel & Gaming Trade Council outside the Surrey Hotel, where demonstrators voiced their concerns about over a hundred union workers reportedly not being rehired post-pandemic.
