Activist Arrested During Zoran Mamdani Event in Staten Island
On Wednesday, activist Scott Ro Byde was taken into custody outside an anti-Trump rally held by New York City’s Democratic mayoral candidate, Zoran Mamdani, on Staten Island. During the event, Lo Baido confronted Mamdani, declaring, “This is my f–island, you are not welcome here.”
Lo Baido hurled insults at Mamdani, accusing him of hating Jews, law enforcement, and America. He was arrested by the New York Police Department (NYPD) after using a megaphone to disrupt the opening remarks. In an interview with Fox News Digital on Friday morning, Lo Baido confirmed his arrest, stating, “Every time this guy shows his face, I suggest someone from all the boroughs deal with it.”
Confrontation at Rally
Lo Baido mentioned on social media that he received three subpoenas at the time of his arrest for disorderly conduct and using foul language. As he left the restaurant where the event was taking place, a protester wearing a “Trump Girl” T-shirt shouted, “I’m going back to where you came. I don’t want you on Staten Island.”
Mamdani, who is focusing on immigration policy in his campaign, responded to the protests. Smiling through the chaos, he expressed, “It makes me sad to hear such language, but it’s not surprising as it reflects President Trump’s politics.” This event was part of his series titled “Five Boroughs Against Trump,” advocating for the protection of New Yorkers from potential immigration crackdowns.
Despite the disturbance outside the restaurant, Mamdani persisted with his speech, promoting New York City as a sanctuary city. Some protesters expressed their support for Curtis Sliwa, the Guardian Angels CEO, saying he was the only candidate who could save the city. One protester named Ed claimed he wanted to give Mamdani a “small surprise party,” indicating that the socialist candidate doesn’t represent Staten Island’s values.
Mixed Reactions from Protesters
Protesters like Manny voiced their frustrations, arguing that Mamdani’s policies were “anti-Wall Street.” Interestingly, while Trump secured a 30-point victory in Staten Island during the 2024 election, Mamdani’s political positioning contrasts sharply with local sentiments.
One native Staten Islander, Tommy Banks, bluntly told Mamdani to leave town, criticizing his socialist views. Banks also expressed confidence in other local leaders, calling Mamdani a “snake oil salesman.” Interestingly, another protester, Liz, labeled Mamdani a “communist” and warned that his campaign promises would lead to disaster.
Mamdani came under fire for his ambitious proposals, including free childcare and government-run grocery stores. His victory in the Democratic primary has drawn mixed reactions, with critiques labeling him as anything but fit for office. However, some supporters, like Shahana Masum, defended him, asserting that Mamdani represents her community.
Amidst the chaos, she challenged her detractors, saying, “I brought here my dignity and my visa, so please don’t tell me to leave.”
