Mamdani’s Stance on Apology to NYPD

Zoran Mamdani, the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor, appears to recognize that he should apologize. Yet, he seems hesitant to follow through on that notion.

In a recent exchange with the New York Times, on September 11, Mamdani was asked if he believes he should “apologize to police officers” for a tweet from 2020 in which he labeled the New York City Police Department (NYPD) as “a major threat to racial justice and public safety.” Interestingly, while he acknowledges that an apology might eventually be warranted, he also claims to have been taken aback by the question.

He conveyed that these comments are indicative of his campaign and his views on public safety, highlighting that police play an essential role. “I recognize that this is the case for NYPD officers,” he stated, trying to clarify his stance.

When pressed about whether he still holds those views, he responded, “No,” explaining that his comments were made during a time of profound frustration following George Floyd’s murder. He referred to sentiments shared by Eric Adams about the need for safety and justice to coexist, which he now sees as a more nuanced issue.

However, when the interviewer asked again if he should apologize given that he no longer stands by those comments, Mamdani eventually admitted, “Yes.” Two weeks have passed since he suggested that the Times should issue an apology, yet time continues to tick.

Mamdani’s campaign has received backing from notable figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Councilwoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, although former Vice President Kamala Harris’s support has been somewhat lukewarm.

A recent NYT/Siena poll indicated potential momentum for Mamdani in the mayoral race, yet the article referencing his answers about the NYPD did not address the apology issue. It seems that his social media presence has also lacked updates related to this matter, leaving a question lingering about his consistency or lack thereof.

In his past campaigns, Mamdani has been vocal about not backing down from his beliefs. During a 2020 Assembly race, he chastised his opponent for her reluctance to apologize for returning police funding, asserting, “I will never apologize for standing up for what’s right.” His approach to apologies appears to be a complicated one.