New York City Mayoral Debate Raises Controversial Questions on Jewish Support

New York, New York – During the first general election mayoral debate in New York City on Thursday night, Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani faced some tough questions related to support for Jewish New Yorkers. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo expressed doubts about Mamdani’s commitment to their safety, citing a lack of trust among the Jewish community, which, significantly, is the largest outside of Israel.

Sliwa directly challenged Mamdani, saying, “Jews do not trust you to be there for them when they are victims of anti-Semitic attacks.” This came amid Mamdani’s previous refusal to disavow the statement “globalize the intifada,” a phrase perceived as inciting violence against Jews, as well as his past rap lyrics that referred to the Holy Land Five, who were convicted of terrorism-related charges.

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POLITICO’s Sally Goldenberg asked Mamdani how he planned to reassure Jewish residents that he could be “a mayor for everyone.” After some back and forth, Mamdani claimed he no longer supports the term “global intifada,” citing conversations with Jewish community members that shifted his understanding of its implications.

Cuomo pressed Mamdani further, urging him to openly condemn the term. “Say, ‘I condemn it.’ He doesn’t do that. That’s the problem,” Cuomo pointed out, later accusing Mamdani of not recognizing Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. “He’s a divisive personality overall,” he added.

In response, Mamdani firmly denied Cuomo’s accusations, stating, “I have said many times that I recognize Israel’s right to exist.” However, he also contested the legitimacy of a nation that maintains a system based on race or religion. Cuomo countered, insisting that Mamdani would not support Israel, heightening the tension between the candidates.

Sliwa, meanwhile, emphasized the rising anti-Semitism in New York City, suggesting neither Cuomo nor Mamdani could effectively protect Jewish residents. He noted, “Countering hate requires engaging communities alongside the police to protect those under siege,” echoing the urgency for action.

Mamdani’s Advocacy and Election Context

If elected, Mamdani would become the first Muslim mayor of New York City. He has been vocal against Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, particularly following the violent incidents since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. Mamdani is also a co-founder of the Palestine Justice Student Organization at his university.

Thursday’s debate was co-hosted by NBC 4 New York/WNBC and Telemundo 47/WNJU in partnership with POLITICO. As election day approaches on November 4th, Mamdani is vying to succeed Mayor Eric Adams, who suspended his re-election campaign last month.