New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he disagrees with several controversial remarks by left-wing streamer Hasan Piker, while arguing that people should still be willing to talk with those whose views differ from their own.
Asked about Piker’s comments on Hamas, the Sept. 11 attacks and Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Mamdani said in an interview with Shannon Bream that he did not share those views.
“I think it’s important to be confident in your opinions and still have conversations with people you disagree with,” Mamdani said. “If you only surround yourself with people who echo everything you say and think, you’re going to end up at home looking at a mirror.”
Piker has drawn criticism for remarks portraying Hamas as preferable to Israel, suggesting the United States deserved the 9/11 attacks and arguing the Middle East would be more stable if Iran had nuclear weapons. His recent appearances in support of Democratic candidates ahead of the midterm elections have also become a focus for Republicans seeking to portray progressives and Democratic socialists as extremists.
During an election livestream on Tuesday, Piker spoke about wanting President Donald Trump and Elon Musk to face jail time and said “woke is back.” Mamdani’s appearances alongside the streamer have prompted questions about how much of their politics they share.
Mamdani was also asked about his membership in the Democratic Socialists of America and whether he supports some of the group’s more contentious positions. The interview touched on how governing New York City may differ from his campaign pledges, including a $30 minimum wage and free buses.
