Zohran Mamdani hasn’t yet said sorry for his comments against police, as sources indicate he may not want to offend DSA supporters.

Zoran Mamdani, the leading candidate for mayor, has been vague about why he hasn’t yet offered the anticipated apology to the NYPD.

On Monday, 18 days after pledging to publicly address his past comments about a “racist” police officer, Mamdani reiterated his thoughts. “What I’m grateful for is the conversation with Rank and File officers,” he said at a press conference in Inwood. He added that these discussions reflect on where things currently stand and how they can work together moving forward.

According to insiders, Democratic candidates often avoid straightforward responses to not alienate supporters from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), whose backing Mamdani needs for his campaign.

“Apologizing is easy,” noted one Democratic operative, “but in his case, it’s complicated because of the DSA.”

Another source working on the campaign expressed skepticism, suggesting that Mamdani’s reluctance to apologize might not bode well for future residents of Gracie Mansion.

“If he can’t apologize to those who literally protect him due to DSA pressures, he should reconsider his position,” the source remarked.

The lack of direct answers from Mamdani raises concerns about how he might navigate more complex issues once in office.

Mamdani previously described a 2020 tweet regarding the NYPD as a response stemming from “the pinnacle of frustration” during the uproar following George Floyd’s murder. He mentioned evolving views on police since that time.

As of Monday, Mamdani had not clarified his stance, offering only roundabout responses in lieu of an apology.

When asked if he was apologizing to individual officers during his discussions with police, Mamdani said, “I’m saying these officers are the conversations I have now with.”

Leaders of the police union, who have supported Mayor Eric Adams in his reelection, reported no contact from Mamdani or his team.

Mamdani stated he would reach out to the police union after the election, but a representative for the Police Charity Association indicated there were no plans for a meeting before November.

“We’re not interested in campaign promises from candidates,” said Patrick Hendry, the union president. “We want to see action from elected officials. An apology doesn’t enhance officers’ quality of life.”

Scott Munro, president of the Detective Fund Association, remarked that Mamdani’s campaign knows how to get in touch with him.

“I’m not sure,” he said when questioned about whether Mamdani ever reached out without offering an apology. “We know how he feels about law enforcement. This is all part of the show.”

Mamdani’s vague answers also drew criticism from Rich Azzopaldi, a spokesman for electoral rival Andrew Cuomo. “Is this a drive-by apology?” Azzopaldi questioned. “It’s a ridiculous and insincere response, much like the rest of his answers this election cycle.”

– Additional report by Larry Celóna