New York Mayor-elect Appoints Controversial Figure to Transition Team
Socialist New York Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani has named Tamika Mallory, a former Women’s March organizer who left her position due to allegations of anti-Semitism, to his transition team.
Mallory, known for her calls to defund and even abolish the police, will head the public safety committee. This decision comes as part of Mamdani’s broader initiative that includes 400 other “experts” he has appointed to assist in the transition, as noted in a release from the Brooklyn community site BRIC.
Mamdani expressed that these 400 “esteemed leaders” embody “the best talent.” He believes they will help ensure a strong start on January 1 and that outcomes will align with their commitments.
According to the release, Mallory will play a crucial role in advising personnel selections and offering guidance on policy formulation, execution, and agency best practices.
Criticism Over Mallory’s Appointment
Democratic Representative Richie Torres criticized Mamdani for not condemning language associated with the ‘intifada.’
Mallory stepped down from the Women’s March in 2019 after facing backlash for her admiration of Louis Farrakhan, a contentious figure known for anti-Semitic remarks. She has often referred to him positively, expressing that he is “an honorable minister” and lauding his achievements within the Black community.
In a 2019 episode of *The View*, Mallory faced tough questions regarding her relationship with Farrakhan. Host Sunny Hostin highlighted the problematic nature of her admiration for someone with a known history of anti-Semitism and homophobia.
Mallory defended her stance, stating that being present in the same space does not equate to agreement. However, Hostin challenged her on why she calls him the “greatest of all time.” Mallory responded that her admiration is based solely on his impact within the Black community, not his controversial statements.
Even after her departure from the Women’s March, Mallory continued to stir debate, expressing her support for the concept of defunding the police, claiming she resonates with the Black Lives Matter movement in doing so. In 2021, she reiterated, “Refund the funds. Police.”
Mamdani’s Controversial Stance
Mamdani’s choice to include Mallory on his team has drawn its own criticism, especially because he has also faced allegations of anti-Semitism, which he has denied. Critics contend that appointing someone like Mallory—to them, known for allegedly promoting hate—undermines community safety initiatives.
Writer Trisha Posner remarked on the troubling nature of this association, suggesting that it serves to mainstream harmful sentiments rather than enhance community safety.
Attempts to gather comments from Mamdani or Mallory have not yet resulted in a response.
