As New York City considers the prospect of electing Zoran Mamdani, the Socialist Party candidate for mayor, concerns are being voiced by community leaders, particularly regarding his views on Israel. Two notable rabbis in the city have highlighted the implications of his positions as potential risks for Jewish residents.
Rabbi Amiel Hirsch, from the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, recently criticized Mamdani’s stance, claiming he has been openly advocating for the “dissolution of the Jewish state.” According to Hirsch, having a mayor with such views, especially in a city with a large Jewish population, is unprecedented. He emphasized that while policy disagreements are normal, undermining Israel’s existence fosters anti-Semitism and isolates the Jewish community. “There are risks,” Hirsch added, noting the necessity of speaking out on this significant issue.
Hirsch believes his voice represents the wider American Jewish community’s concerns about threats to Israel’s right to exist. Mamdani has come under fire for his support of sanctions against Israel and for not firmly condemning phrases that suggest anti-Israel sentiments. Critics point to his background at Bowdoin College, where he established a student chapter focused on Palestine.
Another rabbi, Joshua M. Davidson from Temple Emanuel, mentioned that the rhetoric surrounding Mamdani’s campaign has contributed to rising anti-Semitism and violence. He and Hirsch, along with over 650 other rabbis, recently signed a statement urging action against discrimination targeting Jews.
“This ideological anti-Zionism,” Hirsch remarked, highlighting Mamdani’s views, “is concerning as it has historically led to increased anti-Semitism.” At a recent mayoral debate, Mamdani faced accusations from opponents of supporting harmful ideologies. He countered, asserting that mischaracterizations about him often stem from his identity as a Muslim candidate.
Both rabbis indicated that engaging Mamdani in dialogue about his views could be essential in addressing Jewish New Yorkers’ fears if he were to win. Hirsch expressed a desire to explain Israel’s historical significance to him, while Davidson stressed that Mamdani would need to recognize the harm caused by dismissing Israel’s legitimacy.
Meanwhile, polling data suggests Mamdani holds a substantial lead in the mayoral race. Recent results indicate that he is ahead by 21 points among registered voters. It will be interesting to see how he navigates these complexities as the election draws nearer.
