Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani is now closely associated with influential interest groups and anti-Israel advocates who played a significant role in his election. These groups are ready to ensure he addresses their priorities once he assumes office in January.
Political strategist Hank Shenkopf remarked on the situation, noting that taking financial support from these groups creates an obligation—if Mamdani fails to meet their expectations, there’s likely to be pushback. “If he doesn’t deliver, they’ll remember,” he cautioned.
Let’s explore the key figures who will likely influence Mamdani’s decisions as he takes on his new role.
Linda Sarsour
Linda Sarsour, a prominent Palestinian-American activist, is reportedly a mentor and close ally of Mamdani. Recently, she was recorded expressing her intent to hold him “responsible” during a CAIR event, emphasizing that he won’t have free rein once in City Hall.
Sarsour’s past includes organizing the Women’s March on Washington in 2017, although she departed amid accusations of antisemitism. She has previously stated that “you can’t be a feminist and a Zionist at the same time.”
Her controversial views extend to declarations urging Muslims not to humanize Israelis, as they are seen as adversaries. Furthermore, she has criticized Mamdani regarding his possible collaboration with NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, indicating dissatisfaction with his intentions to work with Tisch.
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and CAIR Actions
Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas has urged an investigation into CAIR, which has faced scrutiny over alleged connections to terrorist groups. The organization was implicated in a 2007 terrorist financing case concerning Hamas.
A political action committee from CAIR has contributed over $140,000 to Mamdani’s campaign, further solidifying their influence in his rise to power.
CAIR Action, led by anti-Israel activist Basim Elkala, was pivotal in mobilizing Muslim voters during Mamdani’s primary election.
Elkala has controversial ties himself, notably supporting Rasmair Youssef Odeh, linked to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine and convicted of serious crimes.
Democratic Socialists of America
Mamdani has been involved with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) since 2017. The DSA’s radical leadership previously backed Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez but withdrew their support, feeling she had not been sufficiently critical of Israel.
The DSA has issued calls for significant reforms, including criminal justice reform and hospital access. They oppose incremental ceasefire agreements that they believe fail to address the root issues of conflict.
Mamdani’s team has indicated intentions to address petty crime, yet they’ve been vague on specific policing approaches.
Unified Teachers Federation
The Unified Teachers Federation, representing around 200,000 educational professionals, endorsed Mamdani during the mayoral race. Following this, concerns surfaced among Jewish educators about potential antisemitism in schools.
Mamdani has pledged to employ up to 1,000 new teachers yearly and to provide financial incentives for prospective educators willing to stay in city schools for three years, a move underscoring his commitment to addressing educational staff shortages.
Working Families Party
While voting for himself, Mamdani appeared under the Working Families Party line, a critical backer of his campaign. Despite his critiques of wealthy benefactors, considerable funding linked to progressive billionaire George Soros has flowed into the party, enhancing Mamdani’s resources.
The party emphasizes health care access, criminal justice improvements, and environmental issues, aligning consistently with Mamdani’s goals.
Mahmoud Mamdani
In a reflection on his upbringing, Mamdani acknowledged the crucial influence of his parents, particularly in shaping his perspectives. His father, Mahmoud Mamdani, is a well-known scholar with strong socialist views and a notable critic of Israel.
Mahmoud’s work includes an exploration of settler colonialism, specifically addressing the displacement of non-Jews in Israel. He also serves as an advisor to the Gaza Tribunal, seeking accountability for actions in the region.
Patrick Gaspard
Patrick Gaspard, a prominent Democratic strategist and former DNC executive, has been an informal advisor to Mamdani. He has facilitated connections between Mamdani and influential figures in New York City.
Gaspard, known for his strong opposition to Trump, has played an essential role in shaping Mamdani’s transition team, ensuring he is surrounded by capable individuals as he steps into this leadership role.
After the election results, Mamdani challenged Trump directly, signaling his readiness to confront the political landscape ahead.
