Democrats are reportedly in a state of “absolute panic” following Zoran Mamdani’s surprising win in the New York City mayoral primary. There’s concern that he might become “toxic” for the party, particularly if they don’t extend their support, according to sources.
Some congressional Democrats are anxious that Mamdani’s backers might turn against incumbents, like Dan Goldman, Jerry Nadler, Grace Meng, and Adriano Espillat. A New York Democratic source shared this sentiment on Monday.
“It’s not just hesitation; it’s utter panic. They’re worried not only about Governor Kathy Hochul’s poor polling numbers but also about how Mamdani’s presence might negatively impact areas outside Manhattan,” the source mentioned.
In light of this, Hochul and other Democratic leaders seem to be holding back, with many staying quiet on their support for mayoral candidates.
Some top Democrats did congratulate Mamdani, who ran on affordability issues, yet many hesitated or avoided directly backing him, including the governor herself.
“You’re allowed to have all the conversations necessary to make decisions,” Hochul stated when asked about her position on Mamdani during an unrelated event.
Hochul had noted earlier that she planned to engage in multiple discussions with Mamdani first.
A source near Hochul indicated that she worries Mamdani could be perceived as a liability, especially as she aims to maintain favor with moderate Democrats and Republicans ahead of her re-election bid next year.
“She can’t afford to support him. It’s an election. If she does, she could lose Long Island,” the insider explained.
“She needs to position herself as a centrist. It’s not just her—others aligning with Mamdani will have to face similar questions,” the source added.
Concerns extend beyond Hochul, as others reflect on how Mamdani’s viewpoints on socialism and Israel might resonate throughout the city.
“We’re certainly not excited by his win, but he’s galvanizing new voters,” said a staff member from a New York Democratic office. “Still, apprehensions linger. We hope he can manage expectations.”
Mamdani, who was relatively unknown when he launched his campaign last year, gained traction with platforms like free public transit and taxing wealthy businesses. However, his remarks on Israel, particularly his refusal to condemn certain pro-Palestinian phrases during discussions of the Gaza conflict, have sparked significant controversy.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn) has refrained from endorsing Mamdani and urged him to clarify his stance on such rallies, which some see as anti-Semitic.
Similarly, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has not given his support to Mamdani either.
A Senator’s aide criticized Mamdani’s comments on “globalization of intifadas,” raising eyebrows among his supporters.
Other vulnerable Democratic representatives are also distancing themselves from him, potentially setting the stage for future clashes with left-leaning candidates in the upcoming primaries.
Long Island Representatives Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen have openly criticized Mamdani’s positions.
Democrats in New York’s Senate have expressed frustration at the far-left wing, with some suggesting that the establishment should rally around Mamdani.
“The establishment should unite behind him. It feels hypocritical to be ashamed of his base when they supported figures like Bernie Sanders,” one said. “You can’t have it both ways.”
This uncertainty leaves voters contemplating whether to back GOP candidates like Curtis Sliwa, Mayor Eric Adams, or Jim Walden, alongside Mamdani in the general election.
Goldman has avoided questions about Mamdani amid recent events. “We see what happens,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for clarity in Mamdani’s actions to protect Jewish constituents from rising anti-Semitism.
Bronx Representative Richie Torres stated on CNN that he won’t support Mamdani, acknowledging a significant difference in their views despite having had respectful discussions.
Sources indicate that Mamdani’s camp is reaching out to various politicians and groups to build support ahead of the November elections.
While some elected officials like Nadler and state Attorney General Letitia James have quickly rallied behind him, others, like Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, are still maintaining neutrality while seeking specific commitments for their districts.
The AFL-CIO, which unites many unions and boasts over a million members, has announced a strong endorsement for Mamdani following his win.
Political analyst John Tomlin commented that Mamdani’s statements on “globalization of intifadas” complicate his relationship with the broader left. He asserted that while Mamdani might not have malicious intent, it remains challenging to reconcile such statements with a message of equality.
Tomlin warned that Republicans will likely depict Mamdani as a “boogeyman” to undermine him nationwide, echoing past tactics used against former Mayor Bill de Blasio, which could affect other Democrats in suburban areas as well.
